House Joint Resolution 803, sponsored by Faison, urges the Secretary of State to include a discussion on the significance and history of the Appalachian dialect in Section VI of the Tennessee Blue Book. The resolution highlights the common misunderstandings and misrepresentations faced by the people of the Appalachian Mountains, particularly regarding their dialect, which is often viewed as a corrupted form of English. It emphasizes that dialects, including Appalachian, are legitimate varieties of language that reflect the region's unique history and cultural influences, including Native American and Scotch-Irish contributions.
The resolution argues that the Appalachian dialect is a systematic and grammatical way of speaking, deserving of respect similar to other American English dialects. It notes the dialect's historical roots and its impact on the culture and identity of Tennesseans, both past and present. By including a discussion of the Appalachian dialect in the Tennessee Blue Book, the resolution aims to honor and accurately represent this important aspect of the state's heritage.