Linguistic lawfare against inclusive language in the trenches of X
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7203/Just.3.28449Keywords:
non-binary, Catalan, gender neutral, social networks, linguistic empowerment
Abstract
Gender-neutral language (GNL) is proposed as a tool to help combat gender bias encoded in traditional language, which reflects androcentric social practices and ideologies. It also allows for the expression of identities beyond the limitations imposed by the rigid structures of binary and cisheteronormative frameworks. Despite its potential, official discourses mostly adhere to conservative agendas, largely ignoring the claims associated with GNL. We argue that, as a result, linguistic disempowerment ensues, marginalizing already oppressed populations and fostering social confrontation. We conducted a reflective thematic analysis of 150 tweets from 2023 and 2024 on the social network X to gauge underlying ideologies.. Our findings reveal a divided response: some voices recognize the value of GNL in promoting visibility silenced identities and expressing a commitment to social equity, while others resist it, echoing official positions based on notions of linguistic authenticity and authoritative legitimacy. Furthermore, despite framing GNL as a linguistic debate, many attitudes seem instead to be using officialdom to reinforce discriminatory practices against gendered identities.
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Author Biography
Dr. Eva J. Daussà, University of Amsterdam
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