TECH 1.1 - What We Talk About When We Talk About (Our) Language
Channel: Public Knowledge Project
Date: 2020-04-18

Presented November 21, 2019 at PKP 2019. Video edited and produced by Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona.

Title: What We Talk About When We Talk About (Our) Language
Authors: E.L. Guerrero (Public Knowledge Project)
Abstract: The language used in technology, including publishing whether scientific or academic, is rooted in racism and ableism, with terms such as "blacklist" versus "whitelist," "slave" versus "master," or "blind reviews" and "double blind" studies in research papers. These terminologies have become ingrained in our vocabularies, but how can we confront the systemic biases put in place by such oppressive language? More importantly, who does this harm, and how? I want to confront such language and challenge ourselves to become more aware of this type of subtle racism and ableism, and take action to replace them with alternatives that will not be harmful to marginalized audiences.