Dog Whistle Language in the Media: How Can We Hear It? with Derek Keith

“Gang activity. The war on drugs. Tough on crime. They are taking our jobs. They are bad drivers. They are lazy. They are good people.” What images do these phrases and terms conjure in your mind? What does the media suggest with these coded phrases? Suggestive language, or “dog whistle” language, uses specific terms to signal ideas to us that we subconsciously internalize. How can we begin to actively analyze all parts of the language we hear in the news to become more critical listeners? What are the facts, and what are myths or stereotypes about different genders, cultures, races? This discussion will help participants recognize the harmful language that we hear every day, and learn more about how language can be used to promote false narratives and perpetuate discrimination. This program is cohosted by Glendale Public Library.

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Please be advised that we do not record FT programs. We ask that all participants respect this rule. You participate at your own risk, and agree to hold harmless Arizona Humanities and the State Library.

ABOUT THE SPEAKER:

Derek has spent the better part of his decade as a professional educator weaving diversity and social justice education into his every day curriculum and life. He started his career as an Activities Director in Southern California. It was here he was introduced to the California Conference for Equity and Justice and he found a passion for Social Justice education. He went on to develop a Social Justice literature course for a high school in the San Francisco area. In this position he worked with high school seniors to develop the ability to be critical thinkers who can make change. Currently, he works at ASU as a Coordinator for their Writing Centers and heads the departments Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee. He has been a presenter at ASU’s Diversity and Inclusion 2021 conference.