“Day 5: Orwell”

“Day 5: Orwell” 

Leila Machkouri

The reason I became a communications major is because I believe language and the ways in which we communicate are the most influential aspects of what we do. “Say what you mean and mean what you say” was constantly said in my household growing up.  This instilled in me the importance of correct usage of words and language. During the Trump administration, the words that were used impacted people’s lives for the worst. Hate was incited and bad actions were applauded. Although Donald Trump does not have the grandest vocabulary, the words he used sent a clear message to his followers.

The shift in language from the Trump to Biden Presidency is incredible. Biden and his team understand that words carry weight and have direct impacts on people’s lives. Biden’s language is respectful and inclusive, whereas Trump’s is not.

Orwell said, “In our time, political speech and writing are largely the defense of the indefensible.” This was very much the case during Trump’s Presidency. An example of this is Donald Trump neglecting to use correct pronouns, calling noncitizen people “Aliens” etc. He did this to reinforce the homophobic and racist rhetoric of which he and his followers so strongly support.

Trump and his supporters explicitly refuted the idea of political correctness in speech as if speaking respectfully is anti-American. Political correctness is incredibly important, however. Being “politically correct” means choosing your words wisely as to not offend or disrespect people. Language was created to communicate thoughts, emotions, etc. If language is used incorrectly, then you are communicating an incorrect message. Therefore, people who willingly choose to use incorrect language are also choosing to be disrespectful to the individuals whom they are speaking to or about.