Naming, Not Othering: Reframing Communication Labels in Speech-Language Pathology Practice

PURPOSE: This letter proposes that we, speech-language pathology professionals, should stop labeling languages and skills as "differences" with the implication that they are different from General American English (GAE). Instead, we should refer to specific languages by their proper names (e.g., African American English, GAE, Spanish, and French). This letter also highlights how labels can influence individuals' perceptions of a language's legitimacy. This letter is intended to open a dialogue on an important topic rather than provide a comprehensive review or analysis. Considerations that warrant further attention will be highlighted. CONCLUSION: Referring to languages and skills by their name is necessary for speech-language pathologists, fostering a culture of cognitive and linguistic acceptance rather than facilitating an "othering" tone when describing skills and characteristics that do not reflect a standard or dominant ideology. Consideration of this proposed philosophical shift is needed for the sake of ethical practice.