INTRODUCTION
Rationale of the study
Language is one of humanity's most significant inventions, serving as a primary means of communication to express thoughts, feelings, and perspectives about the world It has evolved into a social phenomenon that various specialists, including politicians, leverage for their objectives Politicians utilize language as a powerful tool to convey power and ideology within their discourses, often leading to complexities in understanding the true meaning behind their words Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) seeks to uncover these deeper meanings in both spoken and written speeches, providing a comprehensive framework for interpreting the connotations embedded in language.
Critical discourse analysis (CDA), as defined by Fairclough (2012), integrates the critical tradition of social analysis into language studies, emphasizing the connections between discourse and various social factors such as power relations, ideologies, institutions, and social identities This approach serves as both a normative and explanatory critique, enriching our understanding of how language interacts with societal structures.
The 2020 U.S presidential elections proceeded as scheduled despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, resulting in the Democratic duo of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris defeating the Republican incumbents, President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence On August 11, 2020, Senator Kamala Harris delivered a victory speech, honoring the significance of their achievement.
Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, as well as the first Black and Asian American, to be elected as Vice President of the United States, inspiring hope for many and marking a significant milestone in national women's history.
I have chosen Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) as the focus of my study for my MA thesis, specifically examining Kamala Harris' ideology in her speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention This analysis will be framed using the theoretical perspectives of Norman Fairclough.
Aims of the Study
This study aims to explore the connections between discourse and ideology to enhance the understanding of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) within social studies Additionally, it seeks to advance English language education by offering valuable suggestions for learners focused on CDA.
To achieve the above aims, the objectives are specified to:
- Investigate Kamala Harris' ideologies embedded in her speech at 2020 Democratic National Convention
- Analyze how ideas are represented in the speech using linguistics components.
Research Questions
To fulfill the aim and the objective of the investigation, the researcher is going to answer the following questions:
- What ideologies are conveyed by Kamala in her speech at 2020 Democratic National Convention?
- How are those ideologies realized linguistically?
Scope of the Study
In this article, I focus on Kamala Harris' speech from the third night of the Democratic National Convention, where she formally accepted her nomination as the Democratic vice presidential candidate.
This study centers on the transcription of speech, deliberately excluding non-linguistic elements such as gestures and stress It is a linguistic analysis rather than a political examination, focusing solely on the language used without delving into the broader political context.
The thesis only tries to identify first the use of language and, above all, explain its ideology in the speech Moreover, this is a CDA investigation, and
‘critical’ could be understood here as ‘having a distance from the data and focusing on self-reflection as scholars doing research’ (Wodak, 2002, p.9)
This analysis will focus on the speech from a social perspective, highlighting its key themes related to international social issues While the primary aim of this study is rooted in linguistics, it is essential to acknowledge the broader socio-political context that informs the discourse.
Significance of the Study
Theoretically, this study reinforces CDA theories, particularly in terms of political discourse CDA analysts can uncover ideology hidden behind words by examining texts objectively
This study offers valuable insights for individuals interested in discourse analysis, especially within the realm of political discourse Additionally, it seeks to identify practical applications of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) in English language teaching and education The author aims for the findings to significantly enhance the teaching and learning of English.
4 especially the translation aspect It also aids the reader in understanding the coded message in political speeches
Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) often focuses on political and social issues, examining speeches from notable figures like George Bush, Barack Obama, and Hillary Clinton Despite this extensive analysis, there has been a lack of CDA regarding the speeches of Kamala Harris, the first woman of color to be elected as Vice President of the United States.
In her speech, she not only inspired women and highlighted the shortcomings of the Trump administration but also emphasized the importance of unity and the necessity of electing Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States This thesis aims to explore and illustrate how effective language can influence people's perceptions and convey impactful ideas.
Methodology
The Critical Discourse Analytical framework, introduced by Fairclough
This paper utilizes Fairclough's (2001) three stages of analysis: description, interpretation, and explanation It is important to note that the study does not cover all of Fairclough's questions; instead, it focuses on the most significant aspects of the speech to elucidate the declaration of ideology.
The decision is influenced by the Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) perspective, which emphasizes the importance of the social and political context in which texts are produced Language choices are not merely arbitrary; they can reflect and reinforce particular ideologies or viewpoints Therefore, analyzing a text necessitates a deeper exploration beyond its surface, involving an examination of the underlying processes that shape its meaning.
5 production, interpretation, and explanation on the social and cognitive conditions that give them meaning
In the first stage, a natural textual description of the speech, in terms of lexis and syntax, will be done to find out the ideologies in Kamala Harris’ utterance
In the second stage, questions relating to the situational context will be explored to define the ideologies embedded in the speech
Finally, in the third stage, the text is interpreted as part of the social process
The author acknowledges the inherent subjectivity in choosing to employ Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which, by its very nature, involves a political perspective that influences the interpretation of facts As van Dijk (2003) notes, CDA distinguishes itself from other academic approaches by openly defining and defending its socio-political stance, embracing its bias as a fundamental aspect of the analysis.
To maintain impartiality and align with the author's analysis, we incorporate insights from linguists regarding the issue Additionally, we employ both qualitative and quantitative data processing methods to ensure objective results.
This study utilizes a descriptive qualitative content analysis method, as outlined by Hsieh and Shannon (2005), which focuses on the subjective interpretation of text data Through a systematic classification process involving coding and pattern identification, this approach goes beyond mere word counting or objective content extraction, allowing for a deeper examination of meanings and structures within the texts.
6 manifest or latent in a particular text It allows researchers to understand social reality in a subjective but scientific manner
Identifying the specific ideology behind each sentence in Kamala's speech can be challenging; however, analyzing the vocabulary reveals signs of ideological influence By examining in-group and out-group distinctions, we can uncover the underlying ideology This often manifests through in-group favoritism and out-group disparagement, where the speaker positively presents their group while associating the opposing group with negative traits.
This study utilizes Fairclough's (2013) three-stage practical framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which encompasses description, interpretation, and explanation It is important to note that not all questions proposed by Fairclough are addressed; instead, the focus is on the prominent features of the speech to illuminate the underlying ideological assertions.
In the initial stage of analysis, known as description, the speech is examined for its lexicalization, grammar, and macro-structure This includes an evaluation of vocabulary, specifically looking at in-group positive and out-group negative lexicalizations, as well as the formality of word choices The grammatical analysis focuses on the use of voice and personal pronouns, while the overall macro-structure of the text is also scrutinized during this stage.
In the subsequent phase, we will explore questions related to the situational context to clarify the ideologies present in the text Ultimately, the text will be analyzed as an integral component of social processes and practices, addressing both situational and societal dimensions.
1.6.3 Data collection and data analysis
The study is attached to the CDA approach and carried out with the following stages:
The initial phase of the research involves a comprehensive literature review to develop a clear understanding of the issues pertinent to the research topic This process includes gathering, reading, classifying, and interpreting a wide range of reference materials, studies, and articles related to Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and the thesis theme.
In the second stage, we will select the needed information from Harris speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention These data are thoroughly analysed by appropriate tools
In the last stage, we will have a careful analysis is to unveil the embedded ideology and cover the hidden meanings intended in the speech
This study employs a quantitative method, focusing on the collection and analysis of numerical data and statistics It analyzes utterances from Kamala Harris's speech on the third night of the 2020 Democratic National Convention, utilizing counting and measurement techniques The findings are effectively presented through tables, charts, and figures.
The study primarily employs the Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) approach, utilizing Fairclough's analytical framework, which encompasses three key stages of discourse analysis: description, interrelation, and explanation Each of these stages is elaborated upon in the sections that follow.
About the CDA, three stages are taken into consideration
The description stage of textual analysis focuses on the essential formal properties of discourse, including vocabulary—such as word choice, meaning, and metaphor—grammar elements like voice, modes, personal pronouns, and sentence linking, as well as the overall textual structure, which encompasses interactional conventions and large-scale organization.
Second, the interpretation stage views the discourse as a result of a process of production (situation context) and also as a resource in the act of
8 interpretation (intertextual context and presupposition)
Finally, the explanation stage, most vital, attempts to find the relationship between interaction and the social context
Quantitative and qualitative methods are also employed through three stages, with the dominance of the latter
The quantitative method analyzes linguistic features, such as vocabulary and processes, to identify the most frequent and significant keywords within each corpus, as well as their most common collocates.
The qualitative method is used to choose keywords and collocates for analysis In the critical investigation of the sentences where the keywords and the collocates figure
The study data are collected on https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/19/politics/kamala-harris-speech- transcript/index.html
To understand more about her speech, there will be an overview in the next part
In this analysis, we will employ Fairclough's three-stage practical framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine the speech, focusing on its key features that highlight ideological assertions The research will also provide insights into the origin and context of the speech, with the discourse systematically divided into numbered lines for thorough analysis Lastly, the study will outline the step-by-step procedure undertaken in the research process.
Structure of the Study
Chapter 1: Introduction: This part contains the rationale, aims, scope, significance, methodology and structure of the study We present the approach and the method of the study And we also show the data and the procedure of the research
Chapter 2: The literature review consists of 2 sections
- Section 1: Theoretical background gives an overview of discourse, the origin of critical discourse analysis, critical discourse analysis, ideology, the relations between language and ideology
- Section 2: is the central approach to CDA on the ideology from the view of Teun van Dijk, Ruth Wodak and Norman Fairclough; This section also introduces Fairclough's framework
Chapter 3: presents ideologies of Kamala in the speech at the 2020 DNC Chapter 4: Linguistic realization of Kamala’s ideologies in the speech:
This chapter consists of the analysis of the address in three stages: description, interpretation and explanation
Chapter 5: Conclusion This part summarises the results of the study, presents conclusions and implications It also indicates some limitations and offers some suggestions for further research.
Summary
This section aims to clarify the research questions while incorporating insights from esteemed scholars on the issue Additionally, it employs both qualitative and quantitative data processing methods to ensure objective outcomes.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Theoretical background
Discourse analysis (DA) examines the connection between language and its contextual use, focusing on both written texts and spoken communication By studying language in action, DA provides insights into how meaning is constructed and conveyed in various contexts.
Harris (1952) explored the distribution of linguistic elements in extended texts and their relationship to social contexts, marking a significant departure from contemporary discourse analysis practices.
The eminent linguists such as Austin (1962), Searle (1969), and Grice
(1975) also have influenced the study of language as social action, along with the development of pragmatics, which studies the meaning of language in context (see Levinson 1983; Leech 1983)
British discourse analysis has been significantly shaped by Halliday's functional approach to language, which highlights the social functions of communication and the organization of themes and information in both speech and writing This analysis primarily adheres to structural linguistics principles, focusing on the isolation of linguistic units and the establishment of rules that define coherent sequences in discourse.
American discourse analysis is primarily influenced by the ethnomethodological tradition, which focuses on closely observing how groups communicate in natural environments This field encompasses various approaches, including conversation analysis, which is a key aspect of the American perspective on discourse analysis In conversation analysis, the focus is on understanding the nuances of communication within conversations.
The research emphasizes the importance of closely observing participant interactions and recurring patterns in natural data when constructing structural models Key findings from Goffman (1976, 1979) and the work of Sacks, Schegloff, and Jefferson highlight the significance of these observations in understanding communication dynamics.
(1974) are imperative in the study of conversational norms, turn-taking, and other features of spoken interaction
Dijk (1972), Beaugrande (1980), Halliday and Hasan (1976) are linguists who have made great impacts in findings of identifying the relationship between language elements
Discourse Analysis (DA) has evolved into a diverse field that unifies the study of language beyond individual sentences, focusing on the contexts and cultural factors that shape language use.
Fairclough and Wodak (1997) argue that texts serve as the sole evidence for the existence of discourses, representing a tangible manifestation of abstract knowledge Additionally, these texts are shaped by interactive elements and sociolinguistic influences.
Jager and Maier (2009), as cited in Wodak & Meyer (2009), emphasize that discourse embodies ideologies, shaping both individual and collective consciousness that influences behavior The repetition of ideas within discourse reinforces knowledge and molds social reality Additionally, discourse is characterized by the activities participants undertake, highlighting the power dynamics that are both enacted and perpetuated through these interactions.
According to Fairclough (2001), there exists a dialectical relationship between language and society, where language phenomena are inherently social People communicate in ways shaped by social factors, even when expressing their individuality Conversely, social phenomena are influenced by language, highlighting the interconnectedness of linguistic activity and social dynamics.
12 that goes on in social contexts is not merely a reflection or expression of social processes and practices but also a part of those processes and practices
Fairclough (2001) defines 'discourse' as the entire social interaction process that encompasses a text, highlighting that this process consists of both production and interpretation.
Discourse influences and is influenced by societal elements, functioning as a form of social practice By viewing language as both discourse and social practice, we can analyze not only texts and their production and interpretation processes but also the connections between these texts and their social contexts This includes examining both the immediate social conditions and the broader institutional and social structures that shape them In the following section, we will delve deeper into Critical Discourse Analysis.
2.1.2 The origin of Critical Discourse Analysis
Critical Linguistics (CL) emerged in the mid-1970s to examine the connection between language, ideology, and social structures It addresses the necessity for a critical approach to linguistics that reveals the underlying causes of linguistic phenomena and the essence of language itself CL is recognized for its ability to uncover the implications of language and offers essential tools for individuals to conduct their own analyses of language and ideology.
Critical Linguistics (CL) is rooted in Western-Marxist philosophy, particularly Critical Theory, with key figures like Roger Fowler and Gunther Kress at the forefront They posited that language users' worldviews are shaped by their interactions with societal institutions and the socio-economic framework of their environment This relationship is both enabled and restricted by the ideological nature of language use within society.
13 impress Similarly, ideology is linguistically mediated and habitual for an acquiescent, uncritical reader who has already been socialized into sensitivity to the significance of patterns of language.’ (p.185)
The framework for Content Learning (CL) is grounded in Halliday's Systemic Functional Linguistics, with key concepts from his works, "Language as Social Semiotic" (1978) and "Functional Grammar" (1985), essential for grasping grammar and text interpretation.
In the early 1990s, key scholars such as Teun van Dijk, Norman Fairclough, Gunther Kress, Theo van Leeuwen, and Ruth Wodak emerged with distinct approaches to Discourse Analysis, each contributing unique theories and methodologies while sharing common principles These scholars focused on the organized investigation of semiotic information—whether written, spoken, or visual—aiming to elucidate ideologies and power dynamics This collaborative effort led to the widespread adoption of the term Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to describe their collective work Fairclough (2013) emphasized that CDA should encompass specific characteristics to effectively analyze discourse.
Central approaches to CDA on the ideology
The integration of various linguistic theories and approaches is essential in examining social and discursive processes related to ideological expression By adopting a socio-cognitive perspective, the research connects cognitive theories with linguistic analysis This approach highlights critical discourse analysis as a multidisciplinary perspective aimed at uncovering the complexities of ideology within social practices According to Van Dijk (2006, p.125), two key elements are vital for analyzing ideological expression.
- Emphasize Our good things, and Their bad things, and
- De-emphasize Our bad things, and Their good things
Van Dijk (2006) argues that there is no direct relationship between social structures and discourse structures; instead, they are interconnected through individual and social cognition He emphasizes the complexity and indirect nature of the relationship between ideologies and discourse, stating that "ideological discourse is always personally and contextually variable." As a result, Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) necessitates both linguistic and cognitive foundations to fully understand discourse in context.
CDA should not limit its focus to cognitive and social analysis alone; instead, it must consider the complexities of real-world issues and the diverse desires of individuals This approach requires acknowledging the intervening mental models, goals, and overarching social representations, including knowledge, attitudes, ideologies, norms, and values.
In sum, van Dijk’s approach to ideology has been summarized by the triangle formed by the concepts of Cognition, Society, and Discourse
2.2.2 The Discourse-Historical Approach of Ruth Wodak
The Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA) developed by Wodak perceives discourse as a social practice deeply influenced by the critical theory of the Frankfurt School This theory emphasizes the significance of political discourse in society and its role in conveying ideology through language.
The overall framework of their approach based on a concept of 'context', apart from the first level is descriptive Wodak & Meyer (2001, p 67) shown it in the four degrees as follow:
1 The immediate language or text internal co-text;
2 The inter-textual and inter-discursive relationships between utterances, texts, genres, and discourse;
3 The extra-linguistic social/sociological variables and institutional frames of specific ‘context of situation’ (middle range theories);
4 The broader socio-political and historical contexts, which the discursive practices are embedded in and related to ('grand’ theories)
The DHA obeys the socio-philosophical orientation of critical theory, it accepts a concept of critique which integrates three related aspects: (1) the
The article discusses three types of critique in discourse analysis: (1) 'text or discourse-immanent critique' identifies internal inequalities and contradictions within texts; (2) socio-diagnostic criticism seeks to unveil the manipulative aspects of discursive practices, both explicit and implicit Wodak and his colleagues leverage their contextual experiences and various theoretical frameworks to interpret these discursive events Lastly, (3) future-related prospective critique aims to bridge communication gaps by providing guidelines to combat sexist language and reduce language barriers in environments such as hospitals and colleges.
25 sum, the aim of Wodak and Meyer is to put research into practice (Wodak&Meyer 2009, p.88)
Figure 2.1: Levels of theories and linguistic analysis
The Discourse-Historical Approach (DHA) considers intertextual and interdiscursive relationships among utterances, texts, genres, and discourses, alongside extralinguistic social factors, organizational history, and situational contexts The DHA is structured in three dimensions: first, it identifies the specific topics of discourse; second, it analyzes the discursive strategies employed; and third, it examines the linguistic means and their context-dependent realizations (Wodak & Meyer, 2009, p 93)
Fairclough’s approach (called ‘Critical Discourse Analysis’) believes that language and other elements of social life have a dialectical relationship
Textually-Oriented Discourse Analysis and non-Textually-Oriented Discourse Analysis are the two primary types of discourse analysis, and Fairclough's methodology attempts to blend the two
Fairclough's approach to Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) is grounded in various sociological theories that explore the interplay between language, discourse, and society His method is primarily based on Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL), a framework pioneered by Michael Halliday, who is recognized as a leading figure in this field SFL's emphasis on the connections between texts and their social contexts makes it particularly suitable for CDA, despite its linguistic complexity and specialized terminology.
Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) emphasizes the connection between language and various social attributes, adopting a socially-oriented perspective in text linguistic analysis This focus provides a solid foundation for critical discourse analysis, highlighting SFL's significant contributions to the field.
CDA and SFL serve different purposes and do not closely align, with CDA being a more multidisciplinary approach that seeks to integrate SFL with various social theories To enhance text analysis as a component of social processes, it is essential to foster interdisciplinary dialogue that incorporates perspectives on language and discourse from social theory and science.
Fairclough's model of detailed text analysis represents a qualitative approach to social analysis, particularly through critical discourse analysis, which employs various text analysis methods His goal is to clarify analytical categories in the social analysis of discourse, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the underlying meanings.
In conclusion, Fairclough's work paid much attention to language as a social practice dealing with the social conditions of discourse production and
The critical language approach is vital and effective due to its integration of complex social theories with detailed linguistic analysis of discourse This method transcends traditional linguistic studies, offering an alternative perspective that is essential for understanding language within social and ideological contexts Rather than being a supplementary tool, it serves as a foundational element in both linguistic and social theory research.
CDA, or Critical Discourse Analysis, lacks universally defined principles and methods, making it challenging to pinpoint specific practices (van Dijk, 1995) However, any analysis claiming to follow the CDA framework should adhere to fundamental criteria These criteria were initially outlined by Kress (1990) and further refined by Fairclough and Wodak (1997), who established essential principles for the CDA process.
Norman Fairclough's Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) posits that ideologies are embedded within texts, suggesting that they are not merely products of individual texts but rather reflect broader social interactions These ideological processes encompass the entire discourse as a social event, highlighting the dynamic nature of communication among individuals Additionally, Fairclough emphasizes that texts are subject to multiple interpretations, underscoring the complexity of meaning-making in discourse (Fairclough, 1995, p.71).
Fairclough’s analytical framework is selected for its comprehensiveness among various approaches to Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) Rooted in Halliday’s Systematic Functional Grammar, this framework ensures that discourse analysis transcends mere commentary, providing a solid linguistic foundation for in-depth examination.
Fairclough (1995) urged CDA research should shift between descriptive, interpretive, and explanatory stages
In this stage, the formal properties of the text will be analyzed, as Fairclough (2013) suggests that the formal features present in a text represent specific choices made from available options in vocabulary and grammar within various discourse types He outlines ten key questions that should guide this analysis, emphasizing the importance of understanding these choices in the context of discourse.
1 What experiential values do words have?
- What classification schemes are drawn upon?
- Are there words that are ideologically contested?
- Is there rewording or overwording?
- What ideologically significant meaning relations (synonym, hyponym, antonym) are there between words?
2 What relational values do words have?
- Are there markedly formal or informal words?
3 What expressive values do words have?
5 What experiential values do grammatical features have?
- What types of process and participant predominate?
- Are processes what they seem?
- Are nominalization active/ passive sentences, and positive/ negative sentences used?
6 What relation values do grammatical features have?
- What modes (declarative, grammatical questions, imperative) are used?
- Are there important features of relational modality?
- Are the pronouns 'we' and 'you' used? And if so, how?
7 What expressive values do grammatical features have?
- Are there important features of expressive modality?
8 How are sentences linked together?
- What logical connectors are used?
- Are complex sentences characterized by coordination or subordination?
- What means are used for referring inside and outside the text?
9 What interactional conventions are used?
- Are there ways in which one participant controls the turns of others?
10 What larger-scale structures does the text have?
Review of previous studies
This research builds upon previous studies examining the Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) ideology in political speech, particularly focusing on how power and ideology are reflected in presidential utterances and their impact on public perception.
I referred to in my paper are works based on the Fairclough framework
In his 2014 work, "Critical Discourse Analysis of Barack Obama's 2012 Speeches: Views from Systemic Functional Linguistics and Rhetoric," Bahram explored the effective principles and dominant tropes employed in political discourse, highlighting their significance in shaping communication strategies.
In his 2012 analysis titled "Critical Discourse Analysis of Barack Obama's First Inaugural Speech," Gary Stobbs examines the rhetorical strategies and language employed by Obama to foster a sense of inclusiveness among Americans The study highlights how Obama's choice of words and methods effectively aimed to unite the nation during a pivotal moment.
In 2013, Muhamad A S conducted a Critical Discourse Analysis of Martin Luther King’s speech, focusing on its socio-political implications He examined themes of equality across social, cultural, and political dimensions using Fairclough's framework for Critical Discourse Analysis.
'A Critical Discourse Analysis of President Barack Hussein Obama's
Speeches regarding the Middle East and North Africa' by Alelign Aschale
In 2013, it was revealed that the governing political ideology of the West is designed to protect the interests of the United States and its allies, maintain their global dominance, and suppress the aspirations of the younger generation in targeted countries.
In 2019, Javady Javad presented a study titled "A Comparative Critical Discourse Analysis of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump’s Language Use in US Presidential Campaign," utilizing Norman Fairclough’s three-dimensional framework The research aimed to compare the speeches of Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump during their presidential campaigns, equipping students with critical and analytical skills for a deeper understanding of journalistic texts.
The article "Transitivity Analysis of Kamala Harris’ 2020 Presidential Victory Speech Concerning COVID-19" by Alfath Eka Liani et al., published by Atlantis Press SARL, explores the ideological themes in Kamala Harris' victory speech as the vice president-elect The research employs qualitative content analysis based on Halliday's transitivity system to examine how Harris articulates her vision for rebuilding the USA amid the COVID-19 pandemic Findings reveal that her plans emphasize the importance of enforcing liberty for all citizens as a foundational aspect of recovery.
Zainal published 'Presupposition and Ideology: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Joe Biden’s Inaugural Speech' The goal of this study targeted
In his inaugural speech on January 20, 2021, President Biden's ideology was prominently displayed, with a focus on key issues such as immigration, healthcare, racism, democracy, and climate change A researcher analyzed van Dijk's microstructure level assumptions to uncover how these ideologies are articulated within his address, revealing the underlying themes and values that shape Biden's vision for America.
In 2017, Quách Hải Yến conducted a critical discourse analysis focused on American ideologies reflected in online news articles regarding the South China Sea conflicts from 2014 to 2015 This study aimed to identify and elucidate how these ideologies are portrayed and represented in American media coverage of the issue.
Vi Thị Bảo Thoa conducted a critical discourse analysis of President George Bush's speech following the September 11 attacks, utilizing Fairclough's framework The study revealed that Bush effectively invoked national pride and a sense of heroism through his choice of language.
‘A Critical Discourse Analysis of the Speeches of Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May’ by Lê Thị Thùy Dương tried to compare the ideologies of Margaret Thatcher and Theresa May
The author decided to choose the speech of Kamala Harris at the 2020 DNC to perform the research for the following reasons:
This groundbreaking study analyzes Kamala Harris' ideologies through Fairclough's theoretical framework, highlighting her historic speech as a pivotal moment in modern American history Her address was a bold affirmation of Democratic values, honoring the contributions of women throughout history while inspiring women nationwide Harris criticized the Trump administration for perpetuating racism, injustice, and inequality, and presented a vision that acknowledged the ongoing challenges posed by racism and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Secondly, Kamala Harris won the Democrat Party's historic nomination to become the first Black woman and Asian American to become elected vice- president of the United States
Finally, despite the virtual conference in cyberspace and her social position, she made the audience feel close and intimate during her address.
Chapter summary
This chapter aims to explore various methods for analyzing political speeches and their connection to ideology It focuses on the Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL) principle, which examines the relationships between process representations and participants These principles provide a foundation for discussing how ideology is embedded within speech The following chapter will introduce the data set for analysis.
IDEOLOGIES OF KAMALA IN THE SPEECH
The background of the speech
The data reveals the underlying ideologies present in Kamala Harris's speech during the 2020 Democratic National Convention This article highlights key aspects of her background and career, showcasing her journey and the significant influences that have shaped her political perspective.
Kamala Harris, born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, is the daughter of Indian cancer researcher Shyamala Gopalan and Jamaican economist Donald Harris She obtained her law degrees from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law, and began her political career at the Alameda County District Attorney's Office In 2003, she was elected District Attorney of San Francisco, followed by her election as Attorney General of California in 2010, a position she was re-elected to in 2014 As a U.S Senator, Harris has advocated for healthcare reform, the de-scheduling of cannabis at the federal level, a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, the DREAM Act, an assault weapons ban, and progressive tax reform.
Kamala Devi Harris is a candidate representing the Democratic Party, one of the two major political parties in the United States alongside the Republican Party Known for its liberal stance since the 1930s, the Democratic Party advocates for civil liberties and social freedom The Democratic National Committee serves as the highest authority within the party, guiding its principles and policies.
Democratic Party The DNC is held for the purpose of nominating candidates for the President of United States and the Vice President of United States celebrate
The Democratic Party aims to reshape the political landscape by implementing new policies and revitalizing its image Central to their ideology is the support for civil liberties, social freedom, and equality, along with a regulated free market that ensures opportunities for all Democrats advocate for a proactive government role in combating poverty and addressing social injustices, even if it necessitates increased government power and higher taxes to fund essential social services.
Kamala Harris served as California's attorney general from 2011 to 2017 and represented the state as a U.S Senator from 2017 to 2021 She ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020 but withdrew before the primaries Throughout her career, Harris has confronted issues of racism and has sought effective solutions to the COVID-19 pandemic On August 11, 2020, Joe Biden announced her as his running mate, and she delivered her official acceptance speech during the all-virtual Democratic National Convention held from August 17-20 in Milwaukee, showcasing her commitment to the party and its values.
Kamala Harris, a trailblazing public safety and civil rights leader, made history as the first Black woman and first Asian American elected as Vice President of the United States As the first Indian American prosecutor turned senator, she has garnered significant attention in the U.S mass media, particularly after her participation in the 2020 Democratic Party presidential primaries, where she emerged as a symbol of diversity and progress.
Democratic Party The DNC 2020 took place online from August 17 to 20,
In 2020, the Wisconsin Center in Milwaukee hosted the first online presidential election convention, a significant shift aimed at ensuring public health amid the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic Joseph Robinette Biden selected Kamala Harris as his running mate, highlighting her impressive track record and commitment to improving people's lives, stating, "There is no door Kamala won’t knock on, no stone she’ll leave unturned if it means making life better - for the people."
On the day Kamala Harris accepted her nomination as vice president, her speech played a crucial role in shaping Joe Biden's autumn presidential campaign While it may not have fully showcased her bold political style, which often includes direct confrontations with opponents, it nonetheless served to establish a foundational tone for the campaign Harris's address highlighted her flexibility as a politician and aimed to resonate with voters, emphasizing the significance of her role in the Biden-Harris ticket.
Mixed-race individuals often face unique challenges, including double discrimination from the communities they belong to In the case of Harris, who identifies with South Asian, Black, and American backgrounds, her diverse heritage enriches her understanding of various customs, values, and beliefs This multicultural perspective not only enhances her personal insights but also makes her achievements even more remarkable.
Kamala Harris spoke on her own experiences as a multiracial woman throughout the speech, bringing all of her identities in full Harris thanked the
Kamala Harris' victory as vice president-elect of the United States represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of racial justice and healing, particularly highlighting the contributions of Black women in forming coalitions for change As a mixed-race individual, Harris faced unique challenges in asserting her identity, making her achievement a powerful symbol of the American dream and hope for future generations.
Kamala Harris was inaugurated as Vice President alongside President Joe Biden in January 2021, following their victory over former President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence in the 2020 election This study provides a critical analysis of Harris's acceptance speech, aiming to uncover the underlying intentions and ideologies within her 18-minute address, which consists of 223 lines, including the initial greeting The text has been systematically counted and numbered for detailed analysis (See Appendix 1).
Ideology of inspiration to women
Ideologies do not have to be complex systems like socialism or communism; rather, each group selects cultural norms and values that align with its goals and interests, forming the foundation of its ideology Notably, in 2020, women surpassed men in the American workforce for the first time since the Great Recession, highlighting their essential role in society Additionally, ideologies often create a divide between "in-groups" and "out-groups," emphasizing the importance of inspiration for women and affirming their significant contributions to society.
Kamala Harris has inspired women nationwide by acknowledging their enduring struggle for voting rights and representation in American politics She highlighted the irony that many Black women, who played a crucial role in securing these rights, continued to face voting restrictions even after the ratification of the 19th Amendment.
In her acceptance speech as the elected vice president at the 2020 DNC, she set a distinctive tone by focusing on the values and struggles of women rather than traditional political themes of gratitude and national pride By emphasizing the respect owed to generations of women who fought for their voices to be heard, she underscored her presence as a testament to their dedication, stating, "That I am here tonight is a testament to the dedication of generations before me."
Kamala Harris's speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention resonated deeply with voters, particularly women, as she made history as the first woman of color to be elected Vice President of the United States, inspiring hope and empowerment.
‘Women and men who believed so fiercely in the promise of equality, liberty, and justice for all.’ (lines 4 - 5)
‘These women and the generations that followed worked to make democracy and opportunity real in the lives of all of us who followed.’ (lines 13-
The term "Black women" is a focal point of ideological contention, particularly within the Republican Party, which often lacks representation of non-male and non-white individuals Opening a speech by honoring the historical contributions of Black women in the fight for voting rights is both powerful and graceful.
Kamala Harris emphasized the importance of unity and acknowledgment of those who paved the way for her, stating, "But as Americans, we all stand on their shoulders." This insightful remark not only served as a personal introduction to the vast audience at the convention but also highlighted her unique position as a vice-presidential nominee By contrasting herself with other party leaders, Harris effectively demonstrated her potential to lead the Democratic Party into the future.
Praising her mother, Harris said: “She raised us to be proud, strong Black women.’ (lines 41-42)
Kamala Harris inspired women across the United States by highlighting the significant contributions of female leaders in public life She referenced pioneering figures in history, such as Hillary Clinton, the first woman nominated for President by a major political party; Mary Church Terrell, a civil rights activist and co-founder of the National Association of Colored Women; and Mary McLeod Bethune, who advocated for the establishment of historically Black colleges Harris also honored Fannie Lou Hamer, a voting rights champion in Mississippi; Diane Nash, a key strategist of the Civil Rights Movement; Constance Baker Motley, the first African American woman federal judge; and Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress She emphasized that these remarkable women are like giants, stating, "we all stand on their shoulders."
The speaker emphasized the importance of honoring the women who championed equality, liberty, and justice, particularly highlighting the contributions of Black women in securing voting rights and achieving these victories.
In her speech, she highlighted the landmark legislation while honoring the resilience of Black women who battled for nearly fifty years to secure their right to vote.
‘They organized, testified, rallied, marched, and fought -not just for their vote, but for a seat at the table,’ (lines 11-12)
Kamala Harris honored the vital role of women in American democracy and recognized the achievements of political pioneers She consistently paired the term 'women' with uplifting words like 'celebrate' and 'victory,' highlighting their significance and inspiring a movement to empower women.
‘equality, liberty, and justice’, ‘inspired’:
‘That I am here tonight is a testament to the dedication of generations before me Women and men who believed so fiercely in the promise of
In her speech, the speaker emphasized the themes of equality, liberty, and justice, using powerful words like "proud," "strong," and "stand on" to convey her admiration for her late mother She highlighted that her mother's life, while representative of many others, is a source of inspiration and valuable lessons The impact of her mother on her political journey is profound, fueling her relentless pursuit of women's rights and equality Similarly, Kamala Harris honored her mother, describing her as a giant whose influence remains largely unrecognized by the world.
‘Another woman whose shoulders I stand on And that's my mother - Shyamala Gopalan Harris’ (lines 24 - 25)
She is tactful when clarifying her identity in public by talking about family Because this makes it easy for listeners to accept her background
At 19, she immigrated from India to the United States to chase her aspiration of finding a cure for cancer While studying at the University of California, Berkeley, she encountered my father, Donald Harris, who had traveled from Jamaica to study economics.
As the daughter of immigrants, she connected with voters by sharing her personal journey and the profound impact her mother had on her life before her battle with cancer Her mother's relentless dedication, exemplified by her tireless efforts to prepare lunches for her family in the early hours, resonated with many women across the U.S., allowing them to see reflections of their own experiences in her story.
- and paying bills after we went to bed Helping us with homework at the kitchen table - and shuttling us to church for choir practice.’ (lines 34 - 37)
‘She made it look easy’ (line 38)
She introduced herself by sharing her family story and how she was brought up “My mother taught me that service to others give life purpose and meaning” (lines 67 - 68)
Kamala gives the impression of a future leader who always puts the family first, especially the mother's nurturing care for the future success of her children
“She taught us to put family first.”
For Kamala, family is more than just parents and children The family includes friends, people who share and help you, like-minded people
‘She taught us to put family first - the family …
Family is the friends I turned to when my mother - the most important person in my life - passed away from cancer.’ (lines 43 - 53)
Kamala effectively engaged her audience by sharing her personal feelings and the intentions behind her speech, fostering a sense of agreement and support among listeners Her relatable family story enhanced her trustworthiness and created a closer connection with the audience.
Moreover, there is a high appearance of keyword in her speech from line
1 to 84 which is used to emphasize the thought and concern that the author wants to draw the attention of the hearers
Table 3.1: Occurrences of lexical items
Lexical items Occurrences Lexical items Occurrences family 14 she 14 mother 6 women 8 woman 3 fought 4
Starting her speech with a brief biographical profile was a strategic move, effectively introducing her to the large convention audience This approach highlighted her distinctiveness from other party leaders and showcased her potential to lead the Democratic Party into the future.
Ideology ties to condemning racism
Mrs Harris criticized the Trump administration for its inadequate response to the coronavirus pandemic, emphasizing the urgent need to confront systemic racism and promote solidarity She highlighted Trump's failure to fulfill his primary duty as President: protecting American lives According to Harris, "Donald Trump’s failure of leadership has cost lives and livelihoods," underscoring the profound consequences of his actions during this crisis.
The Americans are experiencing loss and suffer due to the unfair and racial policies of Trump's administration
The statement "This is not a coincidence It is the effect of structural racism" highlights the deep-rooted issues of racial injustice in the United States In her speech, Harris emphasizes that racism cannot be cured like a virus, linking the urgent crises of the coronavirus pandemic and the protests for racial justice By addressing these interconnected challenges, she signals her commitment to advocating for the Black Lives Matter movement from within the White House, particularly resonating with Black Americans.
“there is no vaccine for racism” (line 103)
“And while this virus touches us all, let's be honest, it is not an equal opportunity offender.” (lines 93 - 94)
In her speech addressing "Donald Trump’s failure of leadership," she effectively highlights the interconnected issues of racial justice, immigration, and gender equality She poignantly remarks, “This virus has no eyes, and yet it knows exactly how we see each other - and how we treat each other,” emphasizing the critical need for compassion and unity in the face of adversity.
The failure of the Donald Trump administration has resulted in incalculable, irreparable losses and the cost of the American people with their
45 own livelihoods and lives The losses that people suffer originate from 'structural racism', inequities and injustice
“Black, Latino and Indigenous people are suffering and dying disproportionately.” (lines 94 - 95)
“This is not a coincidence It is the effect of structural racism
Of inequities in education and technology, health care and housing, job security and transportation
The injustice in reproductive and maternal health care In the excessive use of force by police.” (lines 96-100)
Ideology as a power of persuasion
Ideologies play a crucial role in shaping the behavior and communication styles of political parties, contributing significantly to the establishment, maintenance, and transformation of power dynamics (Thompson, 1990) Fairclough (2013) emphasizes the intrinsic connection between ideology and power, noting that ideological assumptions are deeply rooted in social conventions, which in turn reflect underlying power relations These ideologies serve to legitimize existing social hierarchies and power disparities through the reinforcement of familiar behaviors that often go unquestioned Furthermore, language is a vital component of ideology, as it is the primary medium through which social interactions occur and where 'commonsense' assumptions are most frequently employed.
Fairclough highlights the connection between ideology and power through the societal norms and behaviors that shape our interactions Similarly, Mayr (2008) describes ideology as a construct that supports the interests of specific groups, illustrating how it operates as a tool for maintaining power dynamics.
Social power shapes the perception of events, practices, and behaviors as legitimate and commonplace Politicians leverage language to maintain their influence and secure authority, thereby constructing ideologies Consequently, the empowerment of women and the power of persuasion can be understood as key ideologies.
Kamala Harris expressed her strong support for Joe Biden, emphasizing his ability to unify the nation and urging Americans to vote for him She highlighted a message of unity, particularly focusing on racial harmony, while also introducing herself to voters and outlining her contributions to the Biden-Harris agenda Harris articulated a vision for America as a "Beloved Community," where inclusivity prevails regardless of appearance, background, or love.
‘Joe and I believe that we can build that Beloved Community, one that is strong and decent, just and kind One in which we all can see ourselves.’ (lines 148-149)
Voting for Joe Biden represents a transformative shift for America, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump's approach His administration aims to address racial inequity and social injustice, promoting inclusivity and equality for all citizens This commitment reflects a strong confidence in achieving the Democratic Party's objectives, with Joe Biden at the forefront of this mission.
We need to elect a president who will unite us all—Black, White, Latino, Asian, and Indigenous—bringing positive change and working towards a shared future that benefits everyone.
Kamala Harris effectively communicated that Joe Biden represents the future of the nation, emphasizing this belief as a fundamental aspect of their message She made a clear appeal to the audience, urging them to give Biden the opportunity to lead as President.
'Joe will be a president who turns our challenges into purpose
Joe will bring us together to build an economy that doesn't leave anyone behind Where a good-paying job is the floor, not the ceiling
Joe will bring us together to end this pandemic and make sure that we are prepared for the next one
Joe will bring us together to squarely face and dismantle racial injustice, furthering the work of generations.' (lines 141-147)
Kamala Harris expressed her belief in Joe Biden, highlighting their personal connection as she knew him first as the father of her friend, and later as Vice President and during the campaign She emphasized Biden's commitment to serving the people, portraying him as a dedicated public servant Harris reassured Americans of Biden's numerous contributions to the nation, urging them to support both her and Biden in their shared mission for the country.
Kamala Harris emphasized the importance of electing Joe Biden, highlighting their shared values and vision for a welcoming nation where diversity is celebrated She inspired hope among Americans, urging them to take action by voting for Biden to change the country's future Harris articulated that America's success is intertwined with her support for Biden, portraying him as the key solution to the nation's challenges.
‘Right now, we have a president who turns our tragedies into political weapons,’ Harris said ‘Joe will be a president who turns our challenges into purpose.’ (lines 139 - 141)
Joe is poised to be a president who transforms our challenges into meaningful purpose, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing pressing issues The use of "will" conveys a sense of certainty about future actions, reinforcing his dedication According to Hewings (2005), "will" is appropriate for discussing planned events or likely future occurrences, and it is often used when a decision is made spontaneously during conversation.
18) Therefore, the audience assured that all the issues are solved shortly What the speaker suggests is that she and Joe had planned for everything, but the people would not have them until they have voted Joe into power
Harris aims to leverage her prior experience to shape Biden's legacy, highlighting his significant contributions to U.S political history She emphasizes his authorship of the Violence Against Women Act and the implementation of the Assault Weapons Ban, as well as his role in launching The Recovery Act as Vice President, which played a crucial part in the nation's recovery from the Great Recession.
Kamala effectively conveyed a unified political message with Joe Biden, emphasizing their shared vision for America's future They acknowledged the profound loss and suffering experienced by the public due to the Covid-19 pandemic and the ensuing recession, recognizing the sacrifices made by individuals during these challenging times.
‘Joe and I believe that we can build that Beloved Community, one that is strong and decent, just and kind.’ (lines 148 - 149)
We commit to addressing our challenges with boldness and honesty, ensuring that we communicate the truth We will act with the same trust in you that we hope you will place in us.
Using the pronoun 'we', the distance between the speaker and audience is neutralized and brought to a sense of having a common destiny
‘when we vote, we expand access to health care, expand access to the ballot box, and ensure that more working families can make a decent living.’ (lines 201 - 202)
Kamala Harris's speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention utilized a conversational tone, contrasting with the formal style typically seen in political speeches This approach not only fosters empathy but also helps persuade the audience As the elected Vice-President, Harris aimed to introduce herself to Americans and encourage them to support the Democratic Party By avoiding formal language, she effectively bridged the gap between herself and the audience, making her message more relatable and convincing This strategy highlights the importance of a friendly and approachable demeanor in political communication.
Chapter summary
This section analyzes Kamala Harris' ideologies expressed in her acceptance speech, highlighting her inspirational message to women, her condemnation of racism, and her persuasive power.