Argumentative and Epistemic Oppression: A Black Feminist Analysis Towards Argumentative Justice

Abstract

African American Language (AAL), African American Vernacular English (AAVE), or Ebonics argumentative tactics are seen as hostile, irrational, and not adhering properly to norms of Western argumentative engagement. Speakers of AAL and individuals who utilize the associated argumentative tactics include Black United States women. While there has been a focus within argumentation theory literature on the argumentative oppression and injustice experienced by women, race has not been fully examined. Non/minimal feminist argumentation models have presented analyses as well as strategies to end argumentative injustice for women; however, this dissertation argues that the conception of women within the non/minimal feminist argumentation theory is whitewashed. Such a narrow examination of women’s argumentative practices is narrow and excludes women of color, especially Black women. These models and suggested norms of argumentative engagement alienate and further add to Black women’s oppression.