Health Disparities and the Applied Linguist bridges theory and
practice to demonstrate how applied linguists are uniquely positioned to
make vital contributions towards advancing health equity in the U.S.
As language, power, and health are deeply interconnected, learning to
articulate these connections is essential to understanding persistent
health disparities in linguistically minoritized communities.
This book offers a nuanced portrait of the complex interactions of
social and environmental factors underlying health disparities in the
U.S., beginning with a brief introduction to key theories linking
language, power, and health, and a historical overview of significant
language-related healthcare legislation. Real-life examples from diverse
contexts in clinics, classrooms, and communities reinforce the ways in
which we can mobilize our knowledge as applied linguists and become
engaged in social justice efforts in our communities.
The authors encourage critical conversations about health equity in
multilingual contexts and emphasize the urgent need for
cross-disciplinary problem-solving and collaborations. The volume is a
must-read for students, scholars, and practitioners in applied
linguistics and language education, and anybody interested in working at
the intersection of language and health.
