Meaning: The quote "Language is political. That's why you and me, my Brother and Sister, that's why we supposed to choke our natural self into the weird, lying, barbarous, unreal, white speech and writing habits that the schools lay down like holy law" by June Jordan, a prominent writer and activist, encapsulates the complex relationship between language, power, and identity. In this quote, June Jordan highlights how language is not only a means of communication but also a tool of social and political control.

Language is deeply intertwined with politics, as it shapes and reflects power dynamics, cultural norms, and social hierarchies. Throughout history, language has been used as a tool of oppression, marginalization, and discrimination. Dominant groups have often imposed their language and linguistic norms on marginalized communities, suppressing their voices and perpetuating systems of inequality.

The quote also touches on the idea of linguistic assimilation, where individuals from marginalized communities are pressured to conform to the linguistic norms of the dominant group. June Jordan's use of the terms "choke our natural self" and "weird, lying, barbarous, unreal, white speech and writing habits" underscores the oppressive nature of this assimilation process. It reflects the experience of many individuals who are forced to suppress their authentic linguistic and cultural expressions in order to conform to the standards imposed by institutions such as schools.

The reference to "white speech and writing habits" highlights the racial dimension of linguistic oppression. In many societies, the language of the dominant group is associated with power, prestige, and legitimacy, while the language of marginalized groups is often stigmatized and devalued. This dynamic reinforces racial inequalities and perpetuates the marginalization of non-dominant linguistic and cultural practices.

June Jordan's quote also underscores the role of education in perpetuating linguistic inequality. Schools, as institutions of socialization, play a significant role in shaping language attitudes and norms. The quote suggests that schools enforce a set of "holy laws" regarding language, imposing rigid and often discriminatory standards that privilege the language of the dominant group.

It is important to note that the quote is not just a critique of linguistic oppression but also a call to resist and reclaim language as a tool of empowerment and self-expression. June Jordan's use of the terms "Brother and Sister" emphasizes solidarity and collective action in challenging linguistic injustices. By acknowledging the political nature of language, the quote encourages individuals to critically examine and challenge the power dynamics embedded in linguistic practices.

In conclusion, June Jordan's quote powerfully captures the politicized nature of language and its implications for identity, power, and social justice. It serves as a poignant reminder of the ways in which language can be used as a tool of oppression and control, as well as a call to reclaim language as a means of empowerment and resistance. By engaging with the complexities of language and power, we can work towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable linguistic landscape.