Sexism in Philippine Language

Sexism in Philippine Language: Reinforcement Versus Resistance

A Public Talk by Dr. Pia Arboleda, Associate Professor and Coordinator at the Filipino and Philippine Literature Program, UH Mānoa. 

October 24, 2016
3:00 – 4:30pm
Hamilton 301

Precis

There is a common notion that the Tagalog/Filipino language is nonsexist because it has generic nouns and pronouns. But upon closer inspection, instances of sexism are present in Filipino and are perpetuated consciously or unconsciously. The sexual stereotypes and patriarchal values reflected in some of these words may be outmoded, but their definitions are still maintained in the dictionary. In this lecture, Pia Arboleda discusses her study of words and definitions from three major dictionaries: Vicassan Pilipino-English Dictionary (1978) , Diksyunaryo ng Wikang Filipino (1989) and UP Diksiyonaryong Filipino (2001). She will also provide recommendations for language advocacy and nonsexist usage of Filipino. 

Speaker Bio

Recipient of the 2015 Regents’ Medal for Excellence in Teaching, Pia Arboleda is Associate Professor and Coordinator of the UHM Filipino and Philippine Literature program at UH Mānoa. As part of her integrated approach to teaching, research and materials development, she produces multi-media bilingual animated films on Philippine folklore. One of her major accomplishments is the translation and subtitling of the 13-part film series on Noli Me Tangere based on the literary masterpiece by Jose Rizal, as well as Philippine films that are now used for classroom teaching.

Talks Program Info More Philippines Talks About AF3IRM

Co-sponsored by UHM Hamilton Library Philippine Collection and AF3IRM Hawaiʻi.  Free and open to the public.