This is an archival piece kept for the sake of preservation.
Inclusivity, please!
- June 14, 2024
Migrations are bound to happen. People change their places of residence all the time for various reasons; family, fleeing from war and persecution, better economic perspectives and
many more.
Governments around the world expect the newcomers to integrate with the local communities; which, you know, is fine by me. The point in my view is not to abandon your roots at all, but even as a curiosity it is good to know about
the local lifestyles.
One of the major areas of social integration is language. Most of the time, migration or fleeing means you are entering a space with people that speak different language than you.
It is only natural to have an expectation that you two can communicate with each other.
But what do the governments do to help this issue?
Some of them implement special programs to help newcomers learn the host's language, which is good.
But not enough.
Integration needs to happen on a more widespread scale. It needs to be integrated in daily lives of people.
Lately, a major German news program has decided to broadcast in simpler language;
it is mainly targetted towards those who are learning German or want news to be more straight-to-the-point.
Which is good!
This is something not only learners and busy people can benefit from, but also people with various disabilities that have problems comprehending complex languages.
Countrymen of all states unite - here is my (and I hope yours too) plea for a more integrated society:
We want governments and broadcasters to join arms and push for more simplified news broadcasts.
Not only that, but also dedicated media in simplified language in all daily life areas - tailored to people's language abilities and potential obstacles in understanding the broadcast.
Osmosis and daily interaction with local culture and its speech is a way for an united society. If we adjust these to a newcomer's level, only then you can toot your horns about integrating people.
Let's make life easier. Not only for those who learn the language.
Do it for the disabled.
Do it for the busy.
Do it for everyone. It will benefit us all in the end.
And let's not shame those new to a language over mistakes.