What is Accentism?
Accentism is when a person is unfairly judged, treated, or commented on because of how they speak.
Unlike many other forms of prejudice, accentism is often seen as socially acceptable, disguised as “upholding standards” or encouraging “proper English”. In reality, accentism is rarely just about language: it acts as a proxy for other forms of discrimination, including classism, racism, and assumptions about a person’s regional origins.
Challenging accentism matters because of its real-world consequences. It shapes how people are perceived, limits opportunities, and can have lasting effects on confidence, career progression, and sense of belonging.