Language is what connects the whole world together. It has shaped our society into what it is today. Through the use of language, powerful leaders and scholars such as Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Helen Keller, and many more has influenced great changes in society. Their voices were heard and brought about civil rights, equality, and awareness of those neglected and silenced. Language is socially empowering by allowing people on the periphery of majority culture to be able to connect to their cultural roots and make their marginalized voices heard.
Language helps people feel socially empowered through their understanding of society along with a sense of connectivity. Malcolm X’s use of academic language helped him voice his opinions and
