‘Language is identity:’ How Pitt approaches topics of linguistic justice in the classroom and beyond

By Amber Medved, Staff Writer • November 10, 2025

The phrase “linguistic justice” can take on several meanings, but at Pitt, it means meeting students where they’re at. English composition classes, the Writing Center and other Pitt programs prioritize linguistic justice for students from all backgrounds.

Opinion | The White House is home to a propaganda machine

By Grace Harris, Senior Staff Writer • October 6, 2025

When we think of propaganda, we often think of the World War I posters introduced in our history classes. The government utilized propaganda like the Uncle Sam “I Want You for the U.S. Army” poster,...

Opinion | Language cannot be legislated

By Livia LaMarca, Assistant Opinions Editor • April 3, 2025

The United States is a multicultural nation rich in a variety of ethnicities, languages and lifestyles. To make one identity the standard is to erase the linguistic and cultural diversity that has defined America since its inception.

Hiring freeze raises staffing concerns for Pitt language departments  

By Kyra McCague, Senior Staff Writer • March 26, 2025

As preparation begins for the 2025-26 academic year, Pitt’s language departments face uncertainty amid the hiring freeze.

Pitt’s Center for African Studies adds three new African languages

By Gabriella Garvin, Senior Staff Writer • October 20, 2023

Beginning this semester, Pitt students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in two new African languages, with one more on the way in the spring. At the beginning of the fall semester, Pitt’s...

Opinion | Language is a free-for-all and you should make up more words

By Thomas Riley, Opinions Editor • October 8, 2023

We should not submit to the restrictions of the dictionary and instead make up new words as we see fit.

International TEFL Academy expands opportunities for recent graduates

By Gabriella Garvin, Staff Writer • October 25, 2022

The International TEFL Academy started in 2010 to help people learn to teach English as a foreign language. It offers a four-week series of educational training sessions that are available in the U.S., Latin America, Asia and Europe.

Opinion | Texting is a language of its own

By Anita Bengert, For The Pitt News • December 10, 2021

Informal literacy is emerging and allows a new era of writers to explore their creative style.

Opinion | Why women should say b—ch more

By Anna Fischer, For The Pitt News • September 15, 2021

Those that linguistic sexism targets must have reclamation.

Language should bolster Black athletes in sports

By Stephen Thompson, Sports Editor • July 7, 2020

A 15-1 record, more than 4,500 total yards and 45 touchdowns, each one capped with a spirited end zone dance and football gifted to a child in the stands. But inevitably, Newton became the target of people who just don't like all the darn “showboating” and celebrations.