Which of the following describes William Labov's view on African-American Vernacular English?

William Labov's perspective on African-American Vernacular English (AAVE) emphasizes its status as a legitimate dialect that possesses its own systematic rules and structures. This view highlights the validity of AAVE as a means of communication that is rich in linguistic features similar to those found in other recognized dialects of English. Labov's work has demonstrated that AAVE is not simply a corruption or flawed version of Standard English but rather a complex linguistic system with its own grammar, phonetics, and vocabulary.

In his studies, Labov has shown that these features can vary among speakers and contexts, thereby illustrating the depth and functionality of AAVE. By recognizing AAVE as a legitimate dialect, Labov encourages respect for linguistic diversity and the understanding that dialects carry cultural significance and reflect the identity of their speakers. This perspective fosters an appreciation of all language varieties and informs educational approaches that respect students' linguistic backgrounds.