The innate oppression towards change or difference is embedded within the human
psyche. Through years of evolution, we have been blessed with the capability to detect and avoid
dangerous situations through emotions such as fear and anxiety. However, it is the way we
express these emotions that can be extremely dangerous to our own individuality and progression
as a society. When in a state of equilibrium or safety, our body naturally oppresses the thought of
change and refuses to accept what is new, due to the possibility of an unknown outcome. While
self-expression is essential for individual identity and societal progress, deeply ingrained fears
and biases reinforced by family, friends, and academic institutions act as forms of oppression,
discouraging personal growth and change.
In the spoken word essay, 3 ways to speak English (2014), author Jamila Lyiscott,
American author and scholar, asserts that societal expectations which create a standard or proper
form of English are stripping individuals of their cultural identity and ability to express
themselves freely. She supports this claim by first demonstrating her degree of linguistic
knowledge and practice by revealing her three ways of English, then evaluates the societal biases
that criticizes and removes credibility from nonstandard English speakers, finally she encourages
her audience to recognize linguistic diversity as a way of cultural expression. Lyiscott’s purpose
in writing this is to promote an inclusive view of language, one that embraces diversity in order
to challenge the standards imposed by societal biases. Lyiscott presents her ideas through an
assertive tone, which emphasizes her desire for a change; likewise, she interprets her situation
with open dialogue, between herself and the characters in her story, further engaging her
audience. Because of Lyiscott’s tone and inclusion of academia, parents, and friends, within her
spoken essay she is attempting to reach an audience of educators, young people, and anyone who
has encountered the complex nature of language in a multicultural society.
The innate fear of change and societal biases, deeply embedded within the human psyche
that is reinforced by family, friends, and academic institutions, contribute to the marginalization
of cultural identities in America. In her spoken word essay 3 Ways to Speak English, Jamila
Lyiscott illustrates how linguistic diversity is challenged by societal expectations that prioritize
Standard English, compelling individuals to suppress their true selves and cultural identities For
example, Lyiscott only calls herself articulate within the “standard form” of English, which is
spoken using conventional grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary. However, she argues that
she is articulate and capable of teaching by saying “But do not judge me by my language and
assume That I’m too ignorant to teach ‘Cause I speak three tongues One for each Home, school
and friends I’m a tri-lingual orator,” (Lysicott.2:26 – 2:25) she continues to argue her ideas by
switching her dialects between that of language around friends, home, and school. This is ironic
because, although society values only Standard English as articulate, Lyiscott’s ability to
seamlessly switch dialects demonstrates her linguistic skill and cultural adaptability. Society’s
limited perspective forces her to downplay her true self to fit a restrictive definition of being
‘articulate.’ This subtle form of oppression, reinforced by family, friends, and academic
institutions, pressures Lyiscott to alter her way of speaking depending on her audience, in order
to avoid judgment or confrontation. What stands out to me in Lyiscott’s performance is how she
refuses to accept the narrow definition of being “articulate.” Instead of conforming, she proudly
embraces her linguistic diversity as something powerful. It’s important to understand that
Lyiscott’s refusal to downplay her linguistic identity speaks to a deeper resistance against societal
pressures. For me it demonstrates how it’s okay to be different and that it’s okay to reject
society’s traditional norms and embrace individuality.
The dangers of our oppressive society are clear in how they shape our perceptions of
identity and self-expression. The fear of change and deeply rooted societal biases limit the
freedom individuals have to embrace their cultural identities. Lyiscott’s refusal to conform to
these standards is a perfect example of how we can challenge societal pressures that limit our
self-expression. She shows that embracing one’s cultural identity is not just an act of self
empowerment but also a step toward broader societal progress.
By rejecting the traditional norms and embracing individuality, we take a stand against the
forces that seek to stifle our growth. The more we challenge the restrictions imposed by
these biases, the more we open the door to personal growth and a more inclusive society.

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