Linguistic Landscape

I am taking a class this semester on multilingualism and language policy. As a linguist getting an MA in conflict resolution, this class is perfect for me! One project that I've done so far is to analyze a "linguistic landscape" as a reflection of relative status and dominance of a certain people group based on the languages that appear on street signs, shops, and other public areas.

I went to two mixed areas of Israel, Ramla (mostly Jewish with a minority Arab population), and Oasis of Peace (a.k.a. Wahat As-Salam/Neve Shalom). Oasis of Peace is a cooperative village that is committed to equality between Jews and Arabs.

So, what did the linguistic landscape show?

1. In Ramla - Hebrew is heavily dominant. About half of the stores have English names, but English isn't one of the primary languages in the area. There was some Arabic on official signs but it was not very widespread (at least in the area that I was in). This may accurately reflect the proportions of Jews and Arabs in the town. It was, however, surprising that Arabic wasn't even on the street signs.

2. Oasis of Peace - this place is fascinating!!!!!! They run a primary school for around 1200 students in the area (Jews and Arabs). They teach in each language! In the early grades they have a Hebrew and an Arabic speaker in each class to make sure all students understand. In the later grades there is just one teacher who teaches in their own mother tongue, whether Arabic or Hebrew. Students may study Math in Arabic and science in Hebrew in the same day.

Also, the school has a park called 'Little Lady Loris Purple Playground of Friendship' - best name ever!

The signage around Oasis of Peace alternates between which language appears first - Arabic or Hebrew. Graffiti is in both languages and kids play in both languages. Their commitment to integration is evident throughout the village.

One thing that this project showed me is that it takes some strongly convicted ideologues to create a truly integrated society. I really think that movements like this, though small in number, are where meaningful change occurs. Laws that come from the government may change the surface of an issue but rarely get at the root. Movements that start small and work their way up seem to have a deeper and more long term impact - this village has been consistently growing for almost 50 years.

I have often found myself surveying my environment for languages (even before this class)  - I wonder how many others do this on a regular basis. If you haven't ever done this before I encourage you to start looking around you for what languages are represented in your area.