DITCH THE CODE SWITCH

Code-switching is the practice of shifting between languages, dialects, or communication styles depending on the social setting. For example, dialect switching happens when someone speaking in African American Vernacular English with friends but uses Standard American English at work. Similarly, a person may tone down their regional accent for a job interview. People also adapt their speech and behavior in professional versus casual settings. This can extend to appearance and mannerisms, like dressing differently at work to fit in. Overall, code-switching is a subconscious action done by many diverse individuals trying to navigate social and professional environments effectively, without knowing inauthenticity harms themselves and the places they work.

Research indicates that code-switching, while sometimes beneficial for professional advancement or social acceptance, can also lead to burnout and identity confusion, particularly for individuals from marginalized groups. Additionally, code-switching unassumingly creates a work environment to accept inauthentic behavior at work in order to feel seen.

Ditch the Code Switch is a poster series meant to visually articulate how switching between two selves feels. It’s disorienting, changing, and exhausting. The idea is not to make people feel like they have facilitated an unsafe environment, but to be aware of when and how it can occur at the workplace, school, etc.