Quote:
Originally posted by The Original Ape:
Although we live here in America, it is not our natural language; therefore speaking it OUR WAY does not reflect a lack of intelligence on our part.
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I have to disagree with that statement somewhat. I don't think that the fact that our ancestors spoke different languages is a valid excuse for some of us not to know standard English in the year 2000. Our slave ancestors were not allowed to speak their native tongues. So our people have been speaking English for over 400 years. Even if some choose not to speak standard english 24/7. When was the last time you went over to an Afrian American's house and heard them speaking Swahili?
We have as much of a right to claim English as our language, as our brethren in Latin America that claim Spanish as their primary language. They are also descendants of slaves. Speaking Spanish doesn't make them any less Black.
Also, English has really been imposed on everyone. It is the international language of business. At least for now. Young people in asian, african and middle eastern countries are trying hard to master this language so they can compete in a global market.
On my final note, I went to victoria's secret the other day and asked the salesperson for a specific item. Her response "We ain't got none dem" almost made my ears bleed. I'm not saying the girl lacks intelligence just because she thinks it's okay to use double negatives. But she is definitely lacking education if she thinks it's okay to speak that way in a place of business.
BTW Original Ape,
you could delete some of those extra posts.
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"Work like you don't need the money. Love like you've never been hurt. Dance like nobody's watching." (Satchel Paige)
[This message has been edited by MIDWESTDIVA (edited November 28, 2000).]
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