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1 results

  • Chapter 1 - Why Are You Talking White? Code-Switching in Academia

  • from Part I - Experiences – The Journey from Student to Faculty
  • Edited by Antija M. Allen, Justin T. Stewart
  • Book:
    We're Not OK
    Published online:
    21 April 2022
    Print publication:
    05 May 2022, pp 11-29
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  • Summary

    A 2019 survey conducted by Pew Research Center revealed that 85% of Black adults sometimes feel the need to code-switch. This chapter explores code-switching by Black faculty at predominantly White institutions (PWIs), the implications of being “culturally compatible” with their White counterparts, and the inherent bias that creates negative stereotypes in colleges and universities. For African-American professors, there is constant self-consciousness in presenting themselves. Adopting code-switching can ease narratives and improve their prospects of success. The idea of “Whiteness” can be characterized as being “normal” and, as such, deemed the social norm. Through “talking White” they assimilate to increase their chances of being legitimized. Code-switching, however, comes at a cost. Projecting an identity deemed “appropriate” in exchange for the acceptance of others is mentally taxing and minimizes cultural expression and individuality. Is the sacrifice worth the reward?