No such thing as correct English | Kellam Barta | TEDxFargo

Kellam Barta challenges the idea of 'correct English,' using the humorous example of the local Fargo pronunciation of 'bison' to illustrate how deviations from a perceived norm can lead to social consequences. He points out that external groups are often pressured to conform to local pronunciations.

Barta discusses 'habitual be,' a grammatical feature in some African American dialects that is often deemed 'non-standard' by mainstream English speakers. He emphasizes that research shows 'habitual be' is systematic and communicative. He uses the Trayvon Martin case, where Rachel Jeantel's use of African American English led to her being discredited, to highlight the severe social consequences of non-standard speech.

The speaker addresses how young women, particularly with the phenomenon of 'vocal fry,' are often criticized for their speech. He notes that while vocal fry is a natural pronunciation difference, mainstream media often vilifies it and associates it negatively with young women. Barta argues there's insufficient scientific evidence to link vocal fry predominantly to young women or to suggest it's a new phenomenon, highlighting a double standard as men also use it without the same criticism.

Barta explores how language is constantly evolving, often driven by young people who innovate new meanings and grammatical uses (e.g., 'epic' or 'Google' as a verb). He points out that older generations consistently accuse younger generations of 'destroying' the language, a sentiment that has historically been true, yet young speakers continue to communicate effectively.

Barta confronts the listener's potential biases, asking why people should conform to 'correct' speech. As a white, college-educated male from Fargo, he acknowledges his privileged position in defining linguistic norms. He concludes by stressing that it is those in privileged demographics who need to change their perspective, recognizing language variation as a difference to be celebrated, not a deficit to be corrected or a reason for exclusion.