Teri Wiechart, OFLA Parliamentarian and Bylaws Chair
Retired, Delphos Jefferson High School

Language and Identity: A Deep Connection

Language is not just a tool for communication; it’s a profound reflection of our identity. The connection between language and identity is a multifaceted and intriguing topic worth exploring.

Language plays a crucial role in shaping our sense of self. It influences how we perceive the world and how we are perceived by others. Bilingual and multilingual individuals often report having different “selves” when speaking different languages. This phenomenon reveals how language can mold our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.

Language is deeply intertwined with culture. It carries the traditions, values, and histories of a community. When people learn a new language, they also gain insight into the culture and worldview of the speakers of that language. For instance, understanding idiomatic expressions and cultural references can provide a richer and more nuanced appreciation of the culture.

Language Loss and Revival

The loss of a language has profound effects on cultural identity. When a language becomes endangered or extinct, a significant part of cultural heritage fades away. However, the efforts to revive endangered languages showcase the resilience and determination of communities. For example, the revival of the Hawaiian language in schools has not only strengthened cultural identity and pride among the Hawaiian people but also reversed decades of punishment for speaking local languages.

Similar revitalization efforts are happening worldwide. In the Brittany region of France, Breton is making a comeback. Meanwhile, the Basque language is experiencing a revival in the Pyrenees. These efforts highlight the importance of preserving linguistic diversity and the cultural richness it represents.

The ongoing interplay between language and identity is a testament to the power of language in shaping who we are. It reflects our personal journeys, cultural heritage, and social connections. As we continue to explore and embrace new languages, we also discover new dimensions of ourselves.

Advocating for Languages

And we language teachers know this.  How do we change the perception of the world?

Changing perceptions about the value of language learning and its connection to identity requires a multi-faceted approach. OFLA is involved in all of these strategies.  What can you do to help?

Where can you engage in public awareness campaigns that highlight the benefits of language learning and the rich cultural heritage it preserves? Utilize various media channels—social media, television, radio, and print—to reach a broader audience.

Have you developed outreach programs that target schools, community centers, and local organizations. Or can you offer workshops, cultural exchange events, and language learning sessions to engage people of all ages?

Do you have students past and present who have success stories and who have benefited from learning new languages? You could share their experiences through articles, videos, and social media posts to demonstrate real-life impacts.

What about integrating language learning with other popular interests, such as travel, cooking, music, and sports? For example, offering cooking classes in a foreign language or language courses for travelers can make learning more appealing. Another example could be working with colleagues in other disciplines on a project.

Many of us have recently advocated for retaining world languages as a core subject in our schools.  Are there other policies that support language education in schools and communities that we could engage with policymakers and educational leaders, especially to emphasize the long-term benefits of multilingualism for society?

What is your personal language acquisition story?  Sharing this can resonate deeply and motivate others to embark on their own linguistic adventures.  Let us know on your social media platforms and on OFLA’s platforms. And can you encourage individuals to share their own language learning journeys and the positive impact it has had on their lives. 

By implementing these strategies, we can gradually shift public perception and emphasize the importance of language learning and its connection to identity.