The language we use significantly influences our perception of reality and our interactions with the world. Words carry immense power, capable of shaping our beliefs and actions. When we refer to elements of nature or people in dismissive terms, it diminishes their value and our respect for them, further impacting our self-respect.
"It numbs us to the consequences of what we do and allows us to take advantage of nature, to harm it even, free of guilt, because we declare other beings to be less than ourselves, just things.” (Kimmerer)
words are used as weapons to objects as a way to make them see like less
we use words to put people and nature down and take aways words that would make them seem unique and like they deserve a important place in the world
Bring up Saeed tedtalk about lgbtq and Muslim identity and how they make him special
Subtopic
is that it's human nature to follow the actions of the masses. We repeat and/or believe what people tell us to believe - about others and about ourselves. So why not tell stories that are empowering and aspirational and challenge us to be better? (Amanat)
We tend to believe what we see around us as true
words are powerful
"But every word we write in the narrative of our own lives, we come closer to uncovering what's beneath our own masks, maybe even embracing that true misfit, that true crazy one within." (Amanat)
OPEN UP WITH THIS AS 1ST AND 2ND PARAGRAPH
"The grammar of animacy is an antidote to arrogance; it reminds us that we are not alone." (Kimmerer)
words used towards self and nature is impactful on the way we view it.
"Grammar, especially our use of pronouns, is the way we chart relationships in language and, as it happens, how we relate to each other and to the natural world." (Kimmerer)
Introduction
words are powerful.
overview of why words are important
conclusion
maybe give more ideas on how to add to the conversation
wrap up inclusiveness and respect
respect towards people/nature
"Now, because we allow others to create these definitions for us, we inherently accept them to be true, whether it's a conscious decision or not. So at some point, the line between perspective and reality begins to blur." (Amanat)
"Yet English grammar demands that I refer to my esteemed healer asit,not as a respected teacher, as all plants are understood to be in Potawatomi." (Kimmerer)
using words as weapons takes away the respect things and people deserve. it takes away our respect to ourselves too