Language practices and the linguistic marginalisation of ethnic minorities in South Africa

Abstract

This study examines the treatment of the official languages of South Africa in crucial areas of public life and discusses how multilingualism can be promoted without infringing on the language rights of ethnic minority language populations. The study is grounded in Language Management Theory and explores the experiences and perspectives of speakers of isiNdebele, Xitsonga, siSwati and Tshivenda. Quantitative research was used, and a standardised questionnaire was administered to students and staff at a University in Gauteng. Seventy-four questionnaires were evaluated using descriptive statistics to look at language use, language policy awareness and attitudes towards language practices in South Africa. The data demonstrate that perceptions of linguistic inequality remain, notwithstanding constitutional requirements for linguistic parity. In the government, education and media areas, respondents indicated that minority official languages are not treated fairly. English was considered the dominant language, particularly among younger generations. Minority languages were considered to lack support and visibility. The survey also showed low levels of public awareness of language policies and language management structures. The findings include raising public awareness of language rights, extending the capacity of language planning organisations, increasing the media presence of minority languages and encouraging language development projects in the education and digital areas. The study contributes to the literature on language policy and planning by providing empirical evidence of the ongoing marginalisation of ethnic minority languages and the disparity between constitutional language provisions and linguistic realities in South Africa.