029: Ax Or Ask, Black English, And Code Switching With Dr. Garrard McClendon

In this episode of The Life Teacher Podcast, Hector welcomes Dr. Garrard McClendon. In 2004, Dr. McClendon wrote a book titled, "Ax Or Ask? The African American Guide to Better English" The book explores how Blacks can improve their speaking and writing skills, avoiding educational and occupational exclusion and exploitation. According the book's synopsis, it "increases awareness, improves student achievement, and provides advocacy for those wanting to speak mainstream English. A job opportunity can be won or lost by the words one chooses." Hector Suco and Dr. McClendon have a unique conversation about what language is, what seems appropriate, why people judge each other, and most importantly, how we can be better.