8.10: Let's Talk Language: Under-Resourced

First Name Basis Podcast

Language is always evolving and we need to evolve with it.

Reflecting on the words we’re using and recognizing opportunities to grow and change is a natural (and necessary) part of our anti-racist journeys. It means breaking down and unlearning things that we thought in the past, but the result is language that better aligns with our intent.

So this week we’re taking a look at the term “under-resourced” and discussing why we need to switch it out for something new. If you’ve been around for a while, you’ve already heard me talk about how I changed from using “low-income” to “under-resourced,” but I’ve learned recently that “under-resourced” may not be the most accurate term after all.

In this episode, I share:

• Why I’m now choosing to say “historically exploited communities” or “systemically exploited communities” instead of “under-resourced.”

• More about what it is that causes words and meanings to change.

• The journey I take, the feelings I feel, and the questions I ask myself when I’m considering how my language should change to reflect my anti-racist journey.

Get your Little Allies Activity Book

If you’re looking for activities for your kids or students to do that are both fun and meaningful, we’ve got something for you!

Our Little Allies Activity Book is now available! It’s basically a coloring book that is focused on allyship, and all the activities are based around anti-racism.

The Little Allies Activity Book includes:

• Color by number

• Protest I Spy

• Dot to dot

• Anti-racist word search

• Black history unscramble

• And more!

Get your hands on it today by heading to firstnamebasis.org/store!

Articles, Studies, & Podcasts Referenced in the Episode

First Name Basis Podcast, Season 8, Episode 2: “What is Coded Language?”

First Name Basis Podcast, Season 3, Episode 7: “Service, Not Saviorism”

First Name Basis Podcast, Season 3, Episode 22: “The Danger of Gaslighting”

“The House of Eve” by Sadeqa Johnson

Bite-Sized Black History (Season 1 features Dr. Charles Drew)

A Guide to Coded Language in Education by Class Trouble