The Development and Perceptions of African American English

Categorizing African American English as a language has created much controversy among linguists and members of society today, finding many negative perceptions associated with it. The history of language, as well as the fundamental elements that make up a particular language, are important to draw upon when considering the basis of “how” the language has come about. 

Whether or not two speakers understand each other in conversation determines if that form of communication can be defined as a language or a dialect. There is a widespread use of African American English found in Zora Neale Hurston’s Mules and Men, in which former slaves share their stories told through Hurston’s narrative herself. The complex, rule-based linguistic system of African American English was formed as a result of former slaves cross-communicating with English speakers during early times of colonization. 

Representation of the diverse nation that we live in with careful attention
to the inclusion of African American English as a language.

Dennis Baron discusses the ways in which students from African American English speaking households communicate in the classroom and how Oakland schools set a great example for the rest of society- making it their mission to make sure their teachers leave any negative perceptions at the door, as their leaders educate them about the language of their own students. Although Oakland’s intentions were for the good of their students, they received large amounts of backlash, implying that the school's efforts made the concept of “Black English” relevant among students. This supports the general consensus of the public in regards to language in school as well as the workplace, as many people believe Mainstream US English to be a significant attribute of being viewed as a "good" student or businessman/woman.

Vinson Cunningham sheds light on this topic as he discusses individuals of societies’ inability to recognize and appreciate African American English for its complex and systematic structure, but rather as a random, bad habit acquired by individuals. It is in our nature to make assumptions about things that we simply do not know anything about. But it is this tendency that steers us down the wrong path as a growing, respectable society. Although African American English may not be of importance to some, it is safe to assume that those individuals have never taken the time to study the extent of its history and the strict patterns associated with it.

The variety of opinions on African American English being categorized as a language has raised the important question of whether or not it should be ruled as an “acceptable” form of communication. With that, we ask- Why not? As we are supposed to raise equality among all individuals of our nation, shouldn’t one’s language qualify for that same respect? Rather than trying to change members of society, it is our job to use our voices for the greater good and educate those around us to accept our nation for exactly what it is: Diverse.