Nobody Mean More to More to Me by June Jordan

In June Jordan’s essay, “Nobody Means More to Me Than You,” she addresses the issue of how Black English is perceived and how it is used. In her essay, she explains what Black English is and how it has been perceived as inferior by white Americans over the years. This perception not only devalues a rich cultural expression but also undermines the identity of those who speak it daily. By revealing the history and significance of Black English, Jordan aims to encourage a deeper understanding of its role in society.

The author’s purpose is to convey to people that there is nothing wrong with using Black English. She stresses the idea that standard English is often viewed as the only proper way to communicate. However, her argument emphasizes that all forms of language are valid and carry their own value. She uses her personal experience to connect with readers by mentioning a class she taught on Black English, using her students’ writing to underscore her point about the importance of representation and authenticity in language.

The intended audience of this text is primarily the Black community. She targets this audience by saying, “White standard controls our official and popular judgments of verbal proficiency and correct or incorrect language skills, including speech.” She is highlighting how the standards set by white people about language use have caused Black individuals to question the validity of their own speech. By addressing this audience directly, she hopes to empower them to embrace their identity and challenge the societal norms that diminish their voices.

Three rhetorical strategies used by June Jordan to emphasize her purpose are ethos, pathos, and anecdotes. By sharing personal stories, she connects with the audience on an emotional level. For example, she shares the story of when she lost her brother to evoke empathy from her readers. Additionally, she employs ethos to establish her credibility, showing her expertise and lived experiences. Throughout the text, she provides these anecdotes to illustrate her points and deepen the reader’s understanding of her perspective, creating a more relatable and impactful essay.

Jordan achieved her purpose because she highlighted the social issues and systemic challenges that impact her life as well as the lives of others. By showing the struggles Black individuals face due to their form of language , she encourages removing ourselves from societal norms and encourages us for a more inclusive understanding of language and identity. Her arguments tell readers to recognize and challenge the biases in the perception of language, fostering a conversation about equality and respect.