A language reveals its speakers’ cultures, emotions, and identities. For many Spanish speakers in the United States, a distinct linguistic hybrid has taken root – Spanglish. While some view this melding of Spanish and English with suspicion, at Web Spanish, we see it differently. We believe that any level of Spanish proficiency is to be celebrated and nurtured, though we also encourage continuous learning and improvement.
As reported by CNN, educational consultant and language researcher José Medina grew up in a linguistic no-man’s-land. His Spanish was too American for Mexicans, and his English too Mexican for Americans. This experience left him feeling disoriented and unrooted. Ironically, once he became a teacher, Medina began to perpetuate the same cycle, chastising his students for the creative blending of their two languages.
In time, however, Medina came to realize that the ability to blend English and Spanish was not a failing, but rather a “superpower.” He now advocates for “Spanglish” and its speakers, arguing that the capacity to nimbly alternate between two languages or to invent new linguistic combinations showcases high levels of cognitive function.
At the heart of Medina’s work is a fundamental respect for the natural evolution of language. Spanglish, Medina suggests, is not random. It has its own internal structure, creating a beautiful symphony of sounds, expressions, and meanings.
Another voice in support of Spanglish is Ilan Stavans, a professor at Amherst College, who calls Spanglish “the fastest growing hybrid language in the world.” Though the blend of Spanish and English has been around for at least 150 years, its influence and reach are still expanding. Stavans insists that Spanglish is here to stay, much like the Spanish language in the United States. It is estimated that by 2050, the U.S. could house more Spanish speakers than any other country.
Yet, despite its longevity and potential for growth, Spanglish has its critics. Some believe it undermines the purity of both English and Spanish. However, both Medina and Stavans stand firm in their belief that Spanglish is not a degradation of two languages but the birth of a new one. Spanglish is a manifestation of a unique cultural and linguistic identity.
At Web Spanish, we echo Medina’s call to respect, validate, and nurture the linguistic abilities of all Spanish speakers, including those who speak Spanglish. Rather than viewing Spanglish as an obstacle, we see it as a rich resource that students can build upon. Indeed, we believe in harnessing the power of Spanglish as a springboard to learn more formalized Spanish, to improve upon existing skills, and to deepen an appreciation for the richness and diversity of language.
In conclusion, Spanglish should be celebrated as a testament to the adaptability and inventiveness of its speakers. While some may argue over the ‘correctness’ of language, it is crucial to remember that languages evolve, reflect cultures, and above all, exist to facilitate communication. So whether you’re a beginner or an advanced learner, let’s celebrate your journey to mastering Spanish, and let’s continue that journey together at Web Spanish.