Abstract
Hybrid-languages are beautiful for the way they draw on the cultures from hence they came and from those in which they currently exist in. For many Hispanics, whether by way of migration and/or heritage, find themselves en un modo intercambio (in a mode of exchange) where English and Spanish mix to form what we know as “Spanglish”. While often seen as a hinderance to the Spanish language, I explore “spanglish” as an inclusive space being embraced in art, literature, education, science, and within the commercial space as a means to promote bilingualism and belonging. I analyze examples of spanglish and bilingual initiatives and artistic works, as well as critical theory regarding the origin of ‘spanglish’ as a language, and as part of an ever-growing culture. In doing so, I invite listeners to meditate on the idea of ni de aquí, ni de allá (not from here nor from there) as a space of potential and representation. Do we need to belong to one or the other or can we exist in multiple cultures and modes of expression simultaneously? In what ways is multilingualism and code-switching being incorporated and for what purpose? Furthermore, as a concept usually associated with Hispanic Americans and Hispanics within the United States, in what ways must we expand our research efforts to include those in other English-speaking countries such as the United Kingdom?
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Communications and Linguistic Studies
KEYWORDS
Multilingualism, Representation, Language, Arts, Culture, Communication, Hybridity
