English 110C, Instructor Bradley
Rhetorical Analysis Essay
3 March 2025
The Power and Validity of Black English
Language is more than just a means of communication; it reflects our identities, cultures, and histories. In the article “Black English Matters”, Chi Luu debunks myths about African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and makes a convincing argument for its recognition as a legitimate form of communication. According to Luu, the legitimacy of a language is determined not only by academics, but also by those who use it on a daily basis. Her rhetorical choices deepen the discussion and challenge common misconceptions about AAVE, allowing readers to see that it is more than just “broken English” and has real value and importance in both local communities and the wider world (Luu 1).
Luu makes her argument stronger by placing Black English both socially and historically. She speaks of how enslaved Africans were denied formal education, and out of need, a new linguistic system emerged that was both African and English. Placing it in historical perspective, this works to prove that Black English is not a mistake; it’s an organic evolution of language. As Luu puts it, “Black speech has historically been maligned as just a broken form of English, but this is as unfair as it is wrong; many of its core grammatical structures can be found in many other languages” (Luu 1). By referencing history, Luu gains credibility and shows that Black English has deep roots. As someone who speaks both Twi and English, this really resonates with me. I’ve seen how languages can be unfairly judged, and it’s frustrating when people treat non-standard dialects as less intelligent or less important.
Luu also breaks down AAVE’s grammatical structures to illustrate that it follows specific rules like any language. She dispels the prevalent myth that AAVE is simply slang or incorrect English by pointing out linguistic patterns in other respected languages. For example, she states, “On absolutely no scientific basis, linguistically consistent grammatical features like double negatives, along with other marked grammatical differences to standard American English, such as use of habitual be, as in ‘he be walkin’,’ or perfective, as in ‘he done did it,’ have stigmatized the speakers of Black English as linguistically backward, uneducated, or unintelligent” (Luu 1). This clarification only serves to make her argument stronger, showing that language is not merely a question of following “correct” grammar; it is a question of understanding diverse linguistic systems. As someone who has struggled to balance my native language with English, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be when people dismiss the way you speak. When your dialect is sometimes looked down on by society. Then it’s not just about language; but also it’s about rejecting an entire community’s history and experiences.
Luu appeals to readers’ emotions by showing them the actual-world implications of language discrimination. She explains how AAVE speakers are often unjustly stereotyped as being uneducated or unprofessional, restricting their access to education and job opportunities. This emotional appeal stresses that language is not merely words; it defines individuals’ lives and futures. She even says that even Shakespeare and Chaucer used double negatives, showing that so-called “bad grammar” at the time was actually just fine (Luu 1). This shows that language conventions are always changing and that AAVE is owed as much respect as any other dialect.
In conclusion, “Black English Matters” is a captivating article illustrating the importance Black English has in relation to identity and combating language discrimination. Luu uses history, language facts, and emotional appeals in an attempt to persuade people AAVE is not merely slang—it’s a dialect full of cultural and linguistic importance. Other than being simply Black English, her case is applicable to any person who has ever been criticized for the way they speak. As a person who switches back and forth between Twi and English, I know how language affects the way people judge you. Luu’s article is a great argument for the acceptance of other languages instead of trying to eliminate them, a reminder that every language and dialect is valuable.
Works Cited
Luu, Chi. “Black English Matters.” JStor Lingua Obscura. 12 Feb. 2020. Black History Matters JSTOR-Daily