Black English dialect has long been rooted in the socio-historical experience of many African Americans. When discussing the most appropriate means of promoting the success of those who speak Black English, educators essentially focus on African American learners because the dialect is most commonly associated with this ethnic group. While some may emphasize the importance of recognizing and respecting dialect differences, others place emphasis on the stigma often associated with Black English usage in mainstream society. Regardless of how one characterizes Black English, it is a dialect on...

Black English dialect has long been rooted in the socio-historical experience of many African Americans. When discussing the most appropriate means of promoting the success of those who speak Black English, educators essentially focus on African American learners because the dialect is most commonly associated with this ethnic group. While some may emphasize the importance of recognizing and respecting dialect differences, others place emphasis on the stigma often associated with Black English usage in mainstream society. Regardless of how one characterizes Black English, it is a dialect on...