Thought for the Week: Language and diversity
Gethin Evans reflects on language and diversity
Reading or hearing the story of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) always depresses me: ‘There was a time when all the world spoke a single language and used the same words.’ These words represent a monotonic planet projecting a colourless, tuneless and utterly lifeless existence, bound by a uniformity of sound. Diversity of language was proclaimed as punishment, not something to be celebrated.
Hopefully, we see the world as a kaleidoscope of ever-changing sounds, patterns and colour, enhancing both our spiritual and physical being. How utterly incomprehensible to us would be spiritual expression all in the same language. As Quakers in Britain we pride ourselves on our commitment to diversity, recognising that with it comes the challenge of tolerance. If we are diverse then we have to be tolerant of situations, views and statements that challenge or trouble us. This can be uncomfortable.
Comments on the status and future of the Welsh language have of late been painful. There has been controversy over the designation of a school as a Welsh language unit in Carmarthenshire, perceived bias by the BBC on the use of the language, and it’s not unusual to have news items about prejudicial attitudes to the language that, inevitably, some politicians find useful and opportune. It was ever thus, such that resistance is both necessary and justified.
For speakers of minority languages, who are passionate about their existence and longevity, comprehension of the existence of ‘linguistic and cultural genocide’ is a reality – and not a shadow that lurks.
One aspect of life in Wales is the existence of that second language, living but threatened. Sadly, Quakers have not always been sensitive to or appreciative of its existence. That has changed mightily, but more could be done. When Quakers move into Welsh-speaking communities do they always appreciate that their footstep might be damaging? The Welsh language is no more the language of heaven than any other, but that hubris has long sustained the Welsh speaker, probably because it’s a defence mechanism to be laughingly quoted.
Living in bilingual societies is never easy and solutions within them to defend the minority language cause much difficulty, frustration and anger: ‘Everyone can speak the principal language, so why bother with the other?’ Why indeed, unless, that is, you are committed to the challenge of diversity despite the problems that this might cause?
Reading paragraph 10.14 of Quaker faith & practice might serve as an opening to discussion and greater awareness of the history of linguistic genocide in these isles, but then perhaps that description is an exaggeration. That may not be the case if you are a Gaelic speaker, Scottish or Irish, conscious that ‘clearance’ and famine was a political tool that served the purpose of those in power, indifferent to diversity, so that the state could rule supreme.
We must see ourselves in our various garbs and shades, including language. It is only then that we can speak of equality in all things. Babel fell and diversity was promoted and God’s purpose was an unintended glorious consequence.
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