Language Diversity Workshop
June 18 @ 10:00 am - 2:30 pm EDT
Language Diversity Workshop: The role of language in fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging
This workshop centers on the topic of language variation—how individuals and communities speak differently from one another, even within the same language. We’ll investigate how and why language variation exists and its role in shaping individuals’ identities, alongside investigations of how language intersects with other identity characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, gender, and age. We will also consider strategies for dismantling linguistic bias, improving intercultural communication, and embracing language diversity.
Dr. Sarah Hercula is an associate professor of applied linguistics at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, MO. She holds a BA and MA in English education from Western Michigan University and a PhD in linguistics from Illinois State University. Her research and teaching focus on linguistic diversity, language attitudes, and linguistic justice, among other areas. Getting her start in the United Methodist Church at the Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo, she has since been involved in music ministry at several local congregations and has served on the Michigan Conference Division on Higher Education and Campus Ministry. She currently lives in Portage with her spouse, Andrew Stange (Director of the Wesley Foundation of Kalamazoo), and their Great Dane, Grimm.
This is a hybrid workshop. Attend online or in-person at the Michigan Conference office, 1011 Northcrest Rd., Lansing.
Click here to Register
$25 early registration (before June 11th)
$30, if registering after June 11th
$45 Group registration for up to 4 persons from your church or organization
