Say It Right: The Power of Properly Pronouncing Black Names | Alandya Warren | TEDxNCState

TL;DR

Mispronouncing someone's name can make them feel othered, so it is important to learn and correctly pronounce black names to show respect and honor the history of self-determination.

Transcript

[Applause] a couple years ago I saw a quote posted online dear little black girl with the big name correct them every single time it didn't have an author and it didn't necessarily need one as it was something my older sister and I had heard all of our lives from our mom a very admirable woman who at one point was also a little black girl with a bi... Read More

Key Insights

• 🫡 Mispronouncing someone's name can make them feel confused, offended, and othered, and it is important to show respect by learning to pronounce names correctly.
• 🔉 Accurate representation of diverse names in the media is essential for fostering understanding, empathy, and inspiration.
• 🖤 African-American names are a form of resistance and self-determination, representing the strength, endurance, and perseverance of the black community.
• 🖤 Personal naming is a cultural statement and affirms a sense of uniqueness and specialness within the black community.
• 🖤 Exposure to unfamiliar names, such as those of black celebrities, helps break down barriers and encourages inclusivity and diversity.
• 🖤 Learning to pronounce black names correctly honors the history of self-determination, strength, and endurance.
• 🖤 Black names passed down through generations symbolize resilience and should be recognized and appreciated.

Questions & Answers

Q: Why is mispronouncing someone's name considered offensive?

Mispronouncing someone's name can make them feel othered and destroy a sense of familiarity or connection. It is a form of disrespect and shows a lack of interest in understanding and honoring someone's identity.

Q: How can mispronouncing someone's name impact their interactions with others?

When someone's name is mispronounced, it can create a barrier in communication and hinder genuine dialogue. It can make the person feel less valued and prevent them from fully participating in conversations and interactions.

Q: How does accurate representation of African-American names in the media break down barriers?

Accurate representation in the media, including showcasing diverse names, can broaden perspectives, create role models, and inspire individuals with unique identities to embrace and celebrate their names. It helps foster understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures.

Q: Why are African-American names considered a form of resistance?

African-American names are seen as a form of self-determination and resistance against the historical oppression and dehumanization faced by black Americans. Giving children unique names allows them to reclaim their identity and assert their pride and dignity.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The speaker shares her personal experience of having her name mispronounced and how it made her feel confused, offended, and othered.

• She emphasizes the importance of saying people's names correctly as it holds power over their feelings and shows respect.

• The speaker discusses the lack of representation of African-American names in media and how accurate representation can break down barriers and inspire others.