Standard written English is defined by those in power as a classless and unchanging grapholect, a public idiom in worldwide use that is presently the unofficial official language. However, true standard English is not changeless, but represents a product in constant process, existing though there is conflict and variation within both the norm and the practice. Standard English, as defined by the powerful, is an instrument created by the dominant for purposes of domination. Even schools, colleges, and universities in the United States serve the dominant--the executives of the transnational corporations and their shareholders. When the powerful control the educational system at all levels, teachers of English cannot escape the conflict over standard English. At conferences, teachers talk only to each other and put their trust in organizations like the National Council of Teachers of English and the Modern Language Association, which support established power. Teachers should not look for allies in the resistance of standardization within the established power structure. (SRT)