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Like the blend of varied spices into a delightful concoction known as gumbo, the stories from my Louisiana heritage are the very essence of my being. My story is akin to this soup, a delicacy of spices, vegetables, meat, and seafood. It is Gumbo Ya ya-a Creole expression that means "everyone talks at once." At times it has the jaggedness of an improvisational jazz or blues piece-a little Ma Rainey and Louie Armstrong rolled into one. Thus, my narrative will take the form of a medley that recounts the influences of my diverse linguistic heritage and my encounters with theorists, in and out of our field, who have shaped my teaching of language and literacy. My belief is that writing and language can best be taught by emphasizing the interrelationship between orality and literacy and by teaching respect for the home language and culture of others. My stories can more broadly appeal to those of any racial or ethnic group who wish to understand their own language practices and attitudes by reminding them of the inextricable relationship between language and culture. A careful study of the evolution and history of the English language illuminates the distinct varieties that each cultural group has contributed to its dynamism. As an illustration of my pedagogical philosophy and practices, I will tell stories about my personal experiences from my earliest years to my later years - experiences that have led to, and taken place in, my professional journey. To tell my story, 1 will mingle my voice with those of other writers; I will allow everyone to speak, albeit not simultaneously, and will allow a polyphony of voices to resonate throughout.1
"Un, deux, trois, quatre, cinq, six, sept, huit, neuf, dix . . ." I chanted, then a child of about nine years old, as I eagerly practiced the French I had been studying in school. My Aunt Vie, whom I was visiting in Franklin, Louisiana, a small town nestled in the heart of Cajun country, became excited over my recitations. "Oh listen to that child; she speak- a French, she speaka French!" Noticing that I had pleased her, I continued my recitations, then began practicing some of the dialogue which I had learned from Madame Thibault. I...