“Language is a male discourse”, said Gloria Anzaldua. Growing up within the Latino Community, unfortunately Anzaldua’s statement holds justice. Before even focusing on the male dominant role, we must realize the origin of the granted superiority- the Spanish language.
The plural use of nostros for women and men demonstrates the male dominance within the Latino Community. Why is that in a room full of women and one boy toddler and suddenly we use nostros over nostras? The Hispanic culture belittles women by grouping them with men and not identifying them as a group of women. Many people fail to acknowledge the impact of robbing women the use of nostros, solely because men are determined dominant. By why? Why is it that the Spanish language favorites men or women? As men created language, the favoritism only continues to get passed on.
“Calladita mas bonita” (you’re prettier when you're quiet), is just one of the women directed Spanish sayings. Never will you hear this being directed to a male because it was made in the feminine form. Many words and phrases are only aimed towards women, often degrading and silencing them. In this particular quote, it highlights the stated role of women-only remaining a pretty face and sitting in silence. It is considered highly disrespected to speak against an male elder if you’re female, despite any circumstance. The inherent role of being silenced remains passed on because we still use phrases like this today.
The first step into overcoming machismo within the household is identifying it exists. Sometimes we fail to recognize the inherent sexist comments that are passed around the dinner table.
Although “Language is a male discourse”, we as females have the power to take it back.
