Exploring My Cultural Identity Through Reflection: A Personal Essay
Being raised in a multiracial, multicultural household, I have always been acutely aware of the complexities of cultural identity. My mother is African American, and my father is French Canadian, making me a biracial and bicultural person. As a child, I struggled to understand and navigate the blurred lines that came with my identity and felt inclined to assimilate into either black or white cultures. As I grew older, I began to realize that this process was a continuous journey of self-discovery and reflection.
Understanding My Cultural Identity
One of the most challenging aspects of understanding my cultural identity was disentangling myself from the unrealistic expectations of society. Societal expectations often dictate that one must choose a singular identity and assimilate entirely to it, erasing other cultural influences. For me, this binary expectation and the need for complete assimilation felt like a betrayal to both cultures that made me who I am.
After years of reflection and exploration, I came to the realization that my cultural identity was a unique combination of both my African American and French Canadian heritage. I slowly came to understand that this uniqueness and diversity were something to embrace and celebrate.
Embracing My Cultural Identity
Embracing my cultural identity did not happen in a night; instead, it was a gradual process. I had to learn to respect and prioritize the value of my own cultural background alongside that of others. For instance, I began to educate myself more about African American and French Canadian history and culture, which enhanced my understanding of myself and the world around me.
Additionally, I started to explore my interests through a cultural lens. For example, while reading Les Misérables, I was captured by the cultural themes contained in the book, which led me to a deep dive into French culture. Conversely, listening to hip hop music led to an investigation of African American culture.
Conclusion
Exploring and developing my cultural identity has been a critical part of my growth and personal development. By understanding and embracing my cultural background, I have gained a better sense of pride and self-confidence. Reflecting on my cultural identity has improved my appreciation for diversity, helped me to create a more comprehensive and well-rounded understanding of myself, and presented me with opportunities to learn from other cultures.
In conclusion, our cultural identity is an integral part of who we are. It’s essential to embrace and celebrate cultural diversity to get a more nuanced understanding of ourselves and the world. We must encourage others to do the same, so together, we create a more inclusive society where individuals feel free to explore, understand, and embrace their cultural identity.
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