Key Terms
Identity
The sum of all lived experiences, relationships, languages, and social positions that make a person who they are. Not a
Culture
Shared beliefs, values, customs, and practices that connect a group across time. Includes both visible elements (religio
Language
Defined in this chapter as a system of words used to communicate. Language is one of the most visible markers of cultura
Intersectionality
The overlap of multiple identities (race, gender, class, religion, sexual orientation, etc.) that creates unique combina
Privilege
Advantages that come from certain identities. Often invisible to those who have them.
Discrimination
Disadvantages projected onto people because of their identities.
Cultural lens
The filter through which you interpret the world; shaped by upbringing, language, religion, region. Changes as new exper
Cultural system
All elements of a culture that shape members: beliefs, traditions, rituals, norms. Explicit (taught directly) and implic
Oppression
Prolonged, sustained, unjust treatment of a group. Rooted in systems and institutions, not just individual behavior.
Bias
Prejudicial preference for one person, group, idea, or thing over another. Often unconscious.
Unconscious bias
Implicit, unfair preferences held without awareness.
Anti-racist writing
Actively identifies and opposes racism. Not passive non-racism; active opposition.
Inclusive writing
Accounts for readers across cultures, abilities, and backgrounds. Represents culture authentically.
Double Consciousness
"This sense of always looking at one's self through the eyes of others; of measuring one's soul by the tape of a world t
Dance Dance Revolution
Incorporates code-switching — alternating between languages or language forms (formal and colloquial) — as a technique a