This week’s Lenten Reflection focuses on Code-switching. Although it occurs in all cultures, it is particularly evident in the Black community. Broadly, code-switching involves adjusting one’s style of speech, appearance, behavior and expression in ways that will optimize the comfort of others in exchange for fair treatment, quality of service and employment opportunities. It is one of the key dilemmas that Black people face around race at work and school and can be a cause of psychological stress. If we are truly seeking to promote inclusion and address social inequality, we must be open to change and acceptance of each individual.
Research suggests that code-switching often occurs in places where negative stereotypes of Black people run counter to what are considered “appropriate” behaviors and more for a specific environment. For example, research conducted in schools suggests that Black students selectively code-switch between standard English in the classroom and African American Vernacular English with their peers, which elevates their social standing with each intended audience. We also see examples of guidelines encouraging Black people to code-switch to survive police interactions, such as “acting polite and respectful when stopped” and ‘avoiding running even if you are afraid.”
(Harvard Business Review The Costs of Code-Switching; the behavior is necessary for advancement — but it takes a great psychological toll)
This short video clip gives concrete examples of how code-switching works:
PRAYER:
God of justice, in your wisdom you create all people in your image, without exception. Through your goodness, open our eyes to see the dignity, beauty, and worth of every human being. Open our minds to understand that all your children are brothers and sisters in the same human family. Open our hearts to repent of racist attitudes, behaviors, and speech which demean others. Open our ears to hear the cries of those wounded by racial discrimination and their passionate appeals for change. Strengthen our resolve to make amends for past injustices and to right the wrongs of history. And fill us with courage that we might seek to heal wounds, build bridges, forgive and be forgiven, and establish peace and equality for all in our communities. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen. [This Prayer for Racial Healing is from St. Elizabeth Anne Seton Parish, Shrub Oak, NY]