Power of Language
In recent months, our collective consciousness has been inundated with a series of events that have not only challenged our understanding of human rights but have also prompted profound reflections on who society deems deserving of such rights. Amidst the heartbreaking backdrop of bombings and massacres claiming innocent lives, a disconcerting trend has emerged: a surge in direct attacks targeting Muslim across the United States.
What's become glaringly obvious is how the media tends to pick and choose its words. There's this noticeable difference in how they describe one group compared to others. It's got us reflecting on the incredible power that language holds and how it shapes our views and treatment of different communities. We continue to see that in different platforms discussing attacks on Muslim kids/teenagers, or using Islamic terminologies to fabricate their own interpretations.
But beyond just being a societal issue, this whole language game has real implications for Muslim professionals at work. How does this lopsided portrayal affect their day-to-day experiences in the workplace? It's a big question mark hanging over creating fair and welcoming work environments.
Before we get into the how to’s, let’s wrap our heads around some recent stats:
The percentage of Muslim women in the American workforce varies in different regions of the country. According to McKinsey 2023 reports, while there was a decent increase in women representation in the workforce, the percentage of women of color remained under-represented.
The first step is understanding, learning and analyzing the environment,
While most big tech companies have been open about their support for being against calling for a ceasefire and firing employees based on beliefs, there are companies who are silent about it. For most professionals, they don’t have to talk about this or bring it as a point of discussion. For a long time we have all heard how this has been deemed as a “complicated” issue to talk about or understand. For a long time our identity has only been defined by what countries like Saudi Arabia or Iran do.
Whether the task is intricate or straightforward, whether the details are hazy or crystal clear, professionals don't merely bring their expertise to the table; they carry their unique individuality and diverse backgrounds. It's an unspoken expectation that professionals not only possess the necessary skills but also the wisdom to navigate using appropriate language and confront any biases they encounter head-on.
Here are some key preparations for individuals encountering such situations:
Avoid euphemistic (softened) language: Be direct and avoid using softened terms that might dilute the severity of the incident/situation. Like “died” VS “murdered/killed”.
Approach discussions with empathy and sensibility.
Maintain access to reliable sources: Always have credible and verifiable sources readily available for reference or citation.
Exercise caution with comparisons: Be careful when drawing parallels between different situations, ensuring accuracy and relevance in any comparisons made.
It's a reminder that by challenging narratives about Muslim (women), we are not only reclaiming our stories but also playing a vital role in fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for others as well. As Muslim women professionals, it’s time to venture beyond our comfort zones , not only for our own empowerment but as catalysts for positive change. By correcting misconceptions, we contribute to a more vibrant and diverse professional world, where every voice is not only heard but also valued.
