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Language and everyday racism - Prof. Dr. Stein as a guest in the English advanced course

Kai Hilpisch

As part of the University of Siegen's Rent-A-Prof event series, the Abitur online English course at the Weiterbildungskolleg Siegen hosted Prof. Dr. Stein.

The lecture on "Language matters - language and everyday racism" impressively highlighted how language shapes our perception and how everyday racism is often reproduced linguistically - sometimes unconsciously, but with far-reaching consequences. Prof. Dr. Stein used specific examples from everyday life, the media and US history to show the role that language plays in social interaction and how reflective use of language can contribute to greater sensitivity and openness. This was linked to the series of lessons on the American Dream, in which the students repeatedly stumbled across terminology and its political meaning at various points. As a school without racism - school with courage, we always try to focus on the possibility of inclusive, non-discriminatory language and language change. That's why it was really nice to be able to fall back on an offer from the University of Siegen, which complemented our lessons in such an individualized way. Prof. Dr. Stein was flexible and cooperative in the run-up to and during the lecture, so that all student questions could be answered and discussed. It became clear that almost everyone had already encountered everyday racism and wondered how best to respond to it.

The students were also pleased that they were able to follow a university lecture in English so well and also contribute to the discussion in English.

A great gain in knowledge and self-confidence in the late evening, just before the vacations!

We definitely recommend it!

(Text: WBK Siegen)

Gruppenbild WBK Online Leistungskurs Englisch mit Prof. Stein