Making a Nation Out of Words

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‘Making a Nation out of Words’ Words may seem nondescript but they actually shape the thinking of generations, cultures and in turn nations. Reiteration of such rhetoric phrases which are non-committal for its users, however; they have immense negative connotations for the people they are intended for. Pakistan being a male dominated society regards females as subordinate and an inferior . This gender bias reflects in our use of language. “Hum ne choorian toh nahi pehni Hui” (We are not wearing bangles) is one such commonly used phrase which completely represents the idea of femininity being regarded as an abuse in the society particularly in the political community. In the article it is further discussed that the idea of being ‘a cleaner’ or a ‘worker’ at a cycle stand is deemed belittling by many parents. Thereby, cementing the class difference in the minds of children since the beginning; this ideology grows stronger and is indelibly imprinted in their personalities for life. Linguistic anthropologists have proved that language is influential in constructing the social beliefs and norms of a society. Moreover, it is instrumental in the process of socialization and interaction which helps to build mindsets and inculcates the socially acceptable ideas within personalities. Moreover, transgenders have also been targeted by the society like cleaners and sweepers. In fact, they are assigned an even lower status. The term ‘khusra’ or ‘Khawaja sira’ is used for them. These terms are used normally to ridicule people. Being called a ‘khusra’ is considered to be an insult or an abuse by people. This indicates that Transgenders are considered slightly less than human beings so the concept of equality is out of the question. However, if Pakistan is to prosper and progress then not only do the masses require apt political representation but they themselves need to

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