THE RHETORIC OF MULTILINGUAL ACTIVISM IN THE FACE OF CITIZENSHIP EXCESS

Abstract

This project investigates the visual rhetoric of multilingual activism campaigns (2016-present) that advocate for more inclusive citizenship. Specifically, it examines how multilingual movements can increase cross-cultural identification, alter expectations of public spaces, and link previously unconnected community members. Looking at lawn signs, pins, and public art, this project supports a framework that erasure and negative identity construction work together to exclude minority groups from obtaining and enacting cultural citizenship; campaigns that introduce non-dominant languages into linguistic landscapes and construct positive cultural identities through identification can mitigate the threats of cultural citizenship excess.