The Patois vs. English has become a common discussion for
various academics. Regular Observer columnists have also conveyed their views
on the matter, among them are Dr. Franklin Johnston and Dr. Grace Virtue. Though
they may not be parallel on the issue, both have good substance to offer. As
far as the discussion may takes us, it is important to note that nobody is
disputing the fact that persons must learn English, as it is the universal
language of commerce and communication. However, I hope that we will also note
that Patois or the Jamaican Creole is unique to us, and it plays an important
part of our cultural heritage.
The students’ performance English Language CSEC exams, is about
63.7 per cent. The reports revealed that students
understand the language but are weak in expression. What is this saying to us?
It is simply saying that students’ have problems expressing themselves in the
language. Since the exams is in written form, what about their ability to speak
the language? There was an argument that is proposing that just as Spanish;
English Language should have an oral component of the examination. Will that
prove to be effective? Who knows? It may or may not be. Dr. Franklin Johnston
in his observer column was emphasizing the fact that politicians and
celebrities should be role models for others to speak the language (English),
but he failed to acknowledge an inconsequential aspect, that is, the home.
Studies have shown that a baby can learn up to five languages
simultaneously. With that being established, if we want to see people
communicating ‘properly’ it starts from the home. Eventually a baby will grow
up speaking the language that is predominantly used within the home. I can
share from experience about a family that attends my church. Both parents speak
the Jamaican Creole predominantly, but when I heard their children speak, I was
marveled. I literally asked them if their children were in the US, but to my
surprise, they said no. What they did, was to expose their children to a
television station called, if my memory serves right, ABC kids.
Am I saying that we should eliminate the use the Jamaican
Creole? I will never suggest that. The Jamaican creole plays a significant role
in our cultural heritage. It has been passed down from generations; it is
unique to us as a people. Others are fascinated by our language. What I have
realized though, is that there is a stigma attached to speaking the language.
Many times I have heard this question, “how yuh chat bad suh?” In some cases,
those who speak the language are viewed ‘buttoos’.
The Language (Jamaican Creole) is, at times, associated to
those who are of low status in society. I am not afraid to own the language and
nobody should. I will publicly acknowledge that the Jamaican Creole is my first
language. English is important and so is Patois. I will suggest that we should
develop mastery of the English Language and use it when it is indeed necessary.
At the same time, let us not view the Jamaican Creole as a problem, or that something
is wrong with it, for some things I can say in the Jamaica Creole will not have
the same effect if spoken in the English Language. Nah mean?
Kenroy Davis is an educator and commentator on social issues. Email feedback to: kenroy.davis20@gmail.com
