Cyberspora: Multilingual Communities Online

Anikó Hatoss

Years ago one of my favourite scholars in bilingualism Professor Hugo Batens Beardsmore wrote a famous chapter with the title: “Who is afraid of bilingualism?” In this chapter he discussed the common misconceptions about bilingualism which can lead educators, parents and governments to pursuing their mission of making countries, schools and families monolingual and avoid the risks and chaos caused by such unwanted troubles as bilingualism and bilinguality. Indeed for too long people believed, and some still do, that the normal way a society should be is through the use of a single language and this should be the language used in all spheres of life. Bilingualism was believed to lead to disadvantage in schools, and bilingual kids were believed to be overburdened and confused due to their exposure and use of two or more languages. Today, we know that this is far from the truth. In fact, bilinguality has been shown to lead to cognitive benefits throughout the lifespan, and bilingual children have been shown to develop stronger metalinguistic skills than those who are only exposed to one language.

In my class, I recently conducted an engaging discussion with my linguistics students regarding the reasons why some individuals still hold a fear or apprehension towards bilingualism. It was fascinating to hear their insightful responses, which clustered into four primary categories: parental fears, political fears, educational fears, and cultural fears.

Within the realm of parental fears, my students highlighted the concern that by raising their children in two languages, parents may inadvertently confuse them, resulting in their inability to achieve linguistic perfection or a so-called ‘native’ level of proficiency in either language. Such fears stem from an ideology that views language as a homogenous entity, following a singular set of rules. However, it is important to acknowledge that languages inherently encompass variations, and even monolingual speakers themselves employ diverse linguistic codes, ranging from formal to informal registers.

Bilingual and multilingual individuals possess a sophisticated linguistic repertoire, enabling them to draw upon various linguistic resources according to the given context and situation. Therefore, their bilingualism should not be perceived as the mere accumulation of two distinct monolingual skillsets, but rather as a dynamic linguistic resource that deserves wholehearted support.

This leads us to a crucial point: the environment in which languages are utilized. The students highlighted that exposure and practice play essential roles in cultivating fluency and enhancing language acquisition. For instance, if a bilingual individual resides in a community where each language is valued and given equal prominence, they are more likely to develop greater language proficiency and confidence in using both languages. On the other hand, in an environment that disproportionately values one language over the other, feelings of unease, apprehension, or even shame may emerge within bilingual individuals.

By acknowledging and celebrating the complexities of bilingualism, we can promote a more inclusive and appreciative outlook towards bilingual and multilingual individuals. Encouraging a supportive environment that fosters the development and utilization of a diverse linguistic repertoire allows bilingual individuals to thrive and contribute to the rich tapestry of global culture and communication.

In conclusion, it is crucial to overcome the unfounded fears surrounding bilingualism and instead embrace its inherent value. Language variation is a natural aspect of human communication, and bilingualism offers a unique opportunity to navigate and appreciate this rich linguistic landscape. Through education, awareness, and open-mindedness, we can create an inclusive society where diverse language skills are nurtured and celebrated.

Languages can strive in environments which support them. While languages are not living creatures, people who use them make choices on an everyday basis. If the environment is supportive of multilingualism, people are comfortable to use their languages in private and public spheres. However, if they sense negativity and rejection, they will either switch to the dominant code or restrict their code to their private domains. This happens in families as well as in the broader community. It is important, therefore, to understand the important role languages play in people’s everyday life.

Language is not merely a tool of communication but also a reflection of one’s identity, culture, and heritage. It carries with it the collective wisdom, traditions, and unique expressions of a particular group of people.

In a supportive linguistic environment, individuals are empowered to freely express themselves and engage in meaningful interactions. It fosters a sense of belonging and inclusivity, allowing diverse voices to be heard and appreciated. This, in turn, contributes to the enrichment and preservation of linguistic diversity, which is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage and promoting social cohesion.

Moreover, a language-friendly environment goes beyond just accommodating multiple languages; it involves recognizing and valuing the importance of language diversity. This can be manifested through various means, such as providing equal access to education, healthcare, employment opportunities, and public services in different languages. By doing so, individuals are empowered to fully participate in society and exercise their linguistic rights.

On the other hand, when languages are met with negativity and rejection, it can lead to the marginalization and suppression of certain linguistic communities. This not only perpetuates inequalities but also hinders the overall development and progress of a society. It is therefore crucial for policymakers, educators, and communities to promote language inclusivity and create an environment where linguistic diversity is celebrated and respected.

In conclusion, languages hold immense value and meaning in people’s everyday lives. They serve as a powerful tool for communication, self-expression, and cultural preservation. Creating supportive environments that embrace linguistic diversity not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the overall harmony and prosperity of societies. Let us treasure and nurture our languages, for they are the threads that weave together the beautiful tapestry of humanity.