Have you ever heard native English speakers mocking someone for speaking English in a ‘African accent’?
While mastering the language can be important for some, Nigerian award-winning spoken-word artist Havfy (@havfy) argues it’s no reason to belittle anyone.
She captures this sentiment in her powerful piece, ‘To the Girl in English Class,’ urging us to take pride in our African identity, regardless of language fluency. Havfy reminds us that our intelligence and values are not tied to English fluency, and that an ‘accent’ only indicates survival. Plus, the artist relays that she is engaged in a decolonial process, where those who mock her should learn her language.
We think the African accent is powerful and is an act of resistance. What’s your thoughts?
Video credit: @havfy
Mixed and mastered: @makesenseproducer
Videography: @spectrummedia
1 Comment
Don’t let the US silent you, build your own platform. We will support you.