In Other Words – a Contextualized Dictionary to Problematize Otherness: an online educational resource to challenge – and reverse – discriminatory language

Abstract

Accenteism, chakka, foreignness, gender, immigrant, muxe, propaganda, silence, tradition. What do these words have in common? They are all words that, in different contexts and in different countries, (re)produce different forms of Otherness. They are also some of the keywords analysed in the online dictionary In Other Words – a Contextualized Dictionary to Problematize Otherness (IOW), a free resource that critically discusses discriminating keywords and presents creative proposals taken from the arts, literature, music, street art, and videos, to provide counter illustrations capable to reverse predominant narratives of the Other. Many historical and contemporary examples show how words are used, manipulated, and mobilised to contribute to the construction of Otherness, creating specific narratives that have the power to shape individual and collective representations and interpretations of the self and others. IOW dictionary is a site to develop and share critical and intercultural awareness able to challenge the reification, the stigmatisation, the stereotyping, or the folklorisation of ‘the Other’ carried out through the dissemination of dehumanising language. By promoting reflections and collective discussions on discriminating language, IOW dictionary fosters intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding across diversities. The website is responsive, so IOW dictionary is a very accessible and user-friendly resource that can be used on different devices in various educational contexts, both formal and informal. Moreover, unlike a book that, at the end, has a final full stop, being online allows IOW dictionary to be a constant work in-progress, of being not so much a product, but rather an ongoing process always open to further collaborations and contributions. Indeed, we believe that raising critical awareness on discriminating language is just part of our work as intercultural educators. That’s why the creative subversion is a relevant step to engage directly students, teachers, activists, scholars, and artists as active participants. Therefore, we encourage the readers of Intercultural Education not only to use the dictionary for their practice and teaching but also