Many academic scholars have encountered some variation of the phrase: ‘This manuscript could benefit
from proofing by a native English speaker’. They may have received this feedback or given it. This article
aims to use peer review as a prism through which to explore aspects of linguistic power and privilege. In
unpacking some of the language of peer review we may question some assumptions we hold about ‘native’
English speakers. Although making reference to other written works, this commentary is foregrounded
in personal testimony. It does this to contextualize the issues. It is written from the perspective of a
storyteller. It draws upon the stories of languages and how we use them, of where they come from and
where they are going. Running throughout is the idea and the very dark reality of colonization.
Item Type:
Article (Published)
Refereed:
Yes
Uncontrolled Keywords:
Colonialism; scholarly communication; peer review; decolonization; scholarly discourse; academic labour