How Does Joseph Make A Speech Screening Strategic Ambiguity?

The Department of Communication of Gonzaga University hosted Dr. Ralina L Joseph for the Speech Screening Strategic Ambiguity. Joseph is the Director for the Center of Communication, Difference, and Equity at the University of Washington. Also, Joseph is an Associate Professor of Communications, American Ethic Studies and Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies. Strategic Ambiguity is the idea a person who is experiencing racism does not respond, in order to win in the end. In addition, it is important to not just be a bystander, but to intervene and contribute to a fairer environment. To have a successful speech that will strongly convey this point to the audience, it is vital to have strong delivery, professionalism, and clear organization.
To construct a powerful introduction Joseph used personal stories regarding how she has been treated professionally as an African American woman. Using personal stories connects with the audience, shows your passion for the topic, and makes them want to continue to listen to your speech because they know you personally care. In addition Joseph used vignettes and focused on female black celebrities. A vignette is a brief evocative description, account, or episode. One was about a college student whom felt racially disrespected because she was overlooked by her school and her issues were not recognized as legitimate. Since the majority of the audience were college students this relates on a personal basis and the audience can connect to her point. In addition, by using well known figures such as Michelle Obama and Oprah the audience can connect what they know about these celebrities to strategic ambiguity. A useful technique Joseph used was incorporating a visual aid and repeating her main points consistently on a slideshow. Joseph showed pictures regarding the storylines and images of female African American celebrities. The audience can then visually connect her points with the pictures. The slideshow reinforces her point of informing the audience of strategic ambiguity. By reinforcing
In Joseph’s case she did not maintain eye contact, did not effectively explain terms she used, and had no inflection of voice. For audience members it was difficult to remain attentive towards the speaker. During the speech Joseph did not hold consistent eye contact with the audience, and instead read off of notecards. The audience was more focused on what she was looking at not was she was saying.. In addition, Joseph used many complex terms such as strategic ambiguity. Joseph did not explain these terms and personally I had difficulty understanding her main points. Lastly although Joseph had strong articulation she did not change the inflection of her tone not taking advantage of the emotion she could have incorporated into her