The exploration of language's impact on identity is vividly illustrated through the experiences of diverse communities, particularly seen among Jamaicans and Nepalis. Language not only serves as a means of communication but also embodies cultural heritage and community, as individuals like Candice Stewart and Sneha Aryal demonstrate.
Candice Stewart, who attended the Global Voices community at the 2024 Summit held in Nepal, reflects on her identity through her connection to Jamaican Patwa, the nation's creole language. Despite living all her life on the island, Stewart grapples with identity questions sparked by her linguistic ambiguity. When asked about her heritage, she'd instinctively reply, "I’m Jamaican!" Yet, this sense of belonging faced challenges when her accent led others to mistake her for being North American or Canadian rather than authentically Jamaican.
Stewart notes, "The initial sting of it slowly turned...into eureka moments." These moments unfolded as she recalled her family's history during Jamaica's colonial era. Both her parents and grandparents navigated phases of British colonial influence, which cast long shadows over the country’s cultural expressions, including language. For many years, speaking Patwa was stigmatized, often seen as indicative of low educational achievement and social status.
Such perceptions drove many Jamaicans to prefer English over their native tongue, leading to painful instances of linguistic discrimination. Stewart recounts, "Patwa was not encouraged or spoken at home... you are assumed to be “dunce” if you communicate this way." She noted the paradox: Patwa is celebrated within certain domains such as tourism, yet remains unacknowledged outside those spaces.
During her immersion at the Global Voices Summit, Stewart participated in collaborative efforts translating poetry back to Jamaican Patwa. She declared this task as one of rebellion and liberation, emphasizing her commitment to learn written Patwa and revive its status. Stewart highlights the Jamaican Language Unit's efforts, established to standardize Patwa and legitimate its role within Jamaican society.
Similarly, across the globe, Nepali language schools are providing second-generation Nepalis with avenues to connect to their roots. Sneha Aryal, born and raised in Australia, began attending these schools at age five, gaining fluency and cultural knowledge alongside her academic education. Aryal reflects, "The school not only taught me how to read and write but also introduced me to Nepali traditions and art." Approximately 2,000 children like Aryal are now participating across multiple states and cities, productively bridging generational gaps.
These language schools, with foundational initiatives spearheaded by organizations like Guthi Australia, connect children deeply with their Nepalese heritage. Ankur Upadhyay, who operates one of these schools, stated, "Our effort is to keep children connected with Nepal...they also serve as a bridge linking the Nepali community with Australia’s multicultural society." The enthusiasm of the children has been encouraging, with many arriving even before classes start, excited to learn their national anthem and participate in cultural activities.
These programs not only focus on linguistic education but integrate aspects of Nepali culture such as music and dance. Chandramani Pandey, principal of Bhasa Pathshala, acknowledges the commitment of the youth, saying, "The dedication of our children...inspire us to continue this initiative." Schools operate with support from the Australian government, receiving grants and support for teacher training, thereby promoting multiculturalism within the educational framework.
Meanwhile, Vishnu Ghimire, chairman at Shabdamaala, articulates the broader benefits these schools provide, stating, "These schools not only help children...but also provide parents with opportunities to build friendships and connections within the community." Over the past 15 years, Shabdamaala has educated around 400 children about the Nepali language and culture through its educational outreach.
The significance of language as part of identity isn't limited to personal experiences but speaks to larger socio-political narratives. On March 1, 2025, U.S. President Trump issued an executive order declaring English the official language of America, amid concerns about the linguistic diversity of the population. With over 350 languages spoken across the country and the decision receiving significant backlash, discussions surround the rights of communities whose voices are intertwined with their languages.
Stewart’s experiences fuel the dialogue surrounding language rights, identity formation, and cultural representation. Language shapes not only how individuals see themselves but also how they are perceived by others, as reinforced by the views of Rev. Fr. Bertram Gayle, who states, "Speaking Jamaican Creole is powerful...you're tappingintoasharedheritage,a senseofbelongingthatresonates deeply."
For communities as diverse as Jamaican and Nepali, language remains more than communication; it is the very essence of cultural pride, history, and connection. Each individual’s efforts to embrace their heritage become part of the vibrant fabric woven by generations past and present, shaping identities for future generations.
Through language, Stewart and Aryal reflect the resilience of their communities, advocating for the acknowledgment and celebration of their rich linguistic legacies. The conversations initiated by their stories resonate beyond borders, emphasizing the need for acceptance and appreciation of languages within all spheres of society.