Not a Minority
Why Language Matters in ending biases and improving Mental Health
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s a Licensed Clinical Social Worker serving children, individuals, and families in the private and public sector for over 15 years I understand what the intended purpose is when using the word Minority when referring to certain populations. When used appropriately the word really refers to a group that is not part of a majority. It is not intended to be negative, harmful or biased when used in this way. Unfortunately, the word Minority however is used quite often in negative forms to refer to certain groups through many platforms such as the social media. The way the word is used now in many instances has completely changed the meaning and purpose, making the use of it feel harmful and negative. The use of the word in this negative form has created an opportunity for the word to really hold a bias. I personally have supported many children, and adults who experienced the harmful effects of the word when used inappropriately. Why then have we been referring to certain groups using this word and how does this action affect their mental health? While we examine the use of this word let us also reflect on the use of other words such as Immigrant, Alien, and Hispanic. Words have power, they can break people, thus language should be respectful. In an effort to improve our own mental health and that of those around us, we should lead efforts aimed at identifying & replacing words that encourage oppression and victimization. Now more than ever our society is being called on to become active participants in the work to address the generational abuse and trauma faced by oppressed communities. As we fight for the rights of all oppressed and vulnerable groups our duty is to ensure we use strategies that change the way we discuss culture. Why I refuse to use the word Minority One of the definitions for the word minority is “a group in society distinguished from, and less dominant than, the
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October 2021 InSession | FMHCA.org
