FRANK Talks

The terminology we use to identify ourselves and others is meaningful. What is your name? What do you call yourself? What do others call you? What groups, clubs, tribes, or clans do you belong to, or not? The terms, names, nicknames, slang, and titles which “define” us have a complex history in American culture. They […]

“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 […]

Patriotism has been defined as loyalty to or defense of one’s country. What do political leaders and social activists mean when they use the term “patriot”? What is the difference between patriotism and nationalism? Throughout history people have demonstrated patriotism through military service, government service, protests, marches, sit-ins and more. How is patriotism expressed now? […]