Edmundson Explores Black Language

Senior Tyler Edmundson began his chapel presentation on Black language by playing audio clips from Kendrick Lamar, Michael Jackson, Jimi Hendrix, and Darius Rucker to highlight a range of styles presented by diverse Black artists. He went on to demonstrate how vernacular expressions may not be understood by people of other ethnicities and cultures and posited that this language barrier has been accentuated by a history of segregation and separatism.
Edmundson also noted that some verbal and nonverbal language associated with Black people has violent connotations, and he encouraged students to be aware of the stereotypes that have led to these perceptions and misperceptions.

“Understand that the Black man in America has been over centuries framed and displayed as belligerent, violent, and unintelligent. … Realize that Black people are not a threat and that we are more than what we are made out to be. Notice that when you walked into this chapel, I played a song by a gangster rapper, but I played other songs that have nothing to do with violence. We’re more than that. We have a vibrant culture that is open for you to learn about and take part in.”

Edmundson, who is president of the theater company, wrestling team captain, and producer-director of the Live at the Hyde variety show, said that stereotypes and prejudice are a natural outgrowth of the fear of the unknown. He offered simple advice to help combat fear and bridge the gap in understanding. 

“Get to know us. Explore Black literature, or music, or films, or poems, or fashion, or anywhere else Black voices can be heard. Even look to your neighbor, and if they are Black, go talk to them.” 

Caption: Tyler Edmundson ’25 is pictured with History Instructor and Theater Assistant Director Ted Fockler ’10 and English and Language Instructor Jeff Posson ’03.
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