Have you ever felt like you have no idea who you are or where you come from? You may know where your ancestors originate from, but it’s hard to feel any connection to that when you don’t know the first thing about that world. First-generation Americans and mixed people tend to fall prey to imposter syndrome. Terms such as “fake Asian” and “fake Mexican” or whatever your ethnicity may be only fed into that imposter syndrome. This generation has subscribed to these new sayings, which only causes a growing identity crisis. There are several easy and achievable ways to learn more about where you come from.
One incredibly valuable way to feel closer to your culture and where you come from is as simple as just sitting with your parents, grandparents, or any other relatives and just listening to what they have to say. Your family is full of individual experiences and knowledge that you may have never tapped into. Next time you have to hang out with your family, instead of dreading it and viewing it as the most boring thing ever, sit down with them and truly listen to what they have to say. You’ll be surprised to hear the stories they have to tell. For example, my mom told me the story of how she ended up coming to America, I had never felt more proud to be her daughter. She talked about how the revolution had just started in Iran and how she had to flee to the U.S. by herself at the age of 15 for her safety. She lived on her own for years, going to school and paying her bills all by herself. She also dealt with constant harassment due to the U.S. hostages that Iran was holding at the time. Meanwhile, my grandpa was in a war zone back in Iran, fighting to keep his country from becoming corrupt. He was the shah of the general’s army. He would talk to me for hours about how amazing life was in Iran before the revolution. Just listening to my mom’s stories from back home made me feel so much more connected to my background. I assure you that your family has a rich history of the trials and tribulations they faced, and all you have to do is listen.
Another awesome way to feel more connected to your culture is to seek out the traditions and customs that your family and ancestors have practiced. You do not, by any means, have to practice the religion that is tied to your ethnicity and culture to partake in traditions and customs. You have every right to explore these things, as long as your intentions are genuine. For example, if you are half Chinese and have never partaken in anything that connects you to that heritage you can read about China’s history and how certain traditions came to be. Some Chinese customs are giving money to the people you love on Chinese New Year, eating dumplings during the winter solstice and so many more small and simple things that can help you feel connected. You could also figure out where your local festivals and events are. In every city, there is always a community of people that share a common culture and ethnicity that you can find and connect with.
One of the most defining things that tie a person to their culture and ethnicity is language. This is a big one because it opens up a whole new world of communication and understanding. It’s common to feel incredibly intimidated by learning a new language or even trying to speak one that you feel you are horrible at. Most people born into a mixed household tend to not learn the language that their bilingual parent speaks. Even when you live in a household where both parents fluently speak the same language it can be hard to speak a language that is not your first. It’s easy to feel like you sound stupid and that you’re better off not trying. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. You have to allow yourself to sound stupid and mess up in order to actually learn the language. Even learning a few conversational starters can feel so good and rewarding. Other languages usually never directly translate to English, so knowing a second language is so much power and expression that you do not have with speaking English. Start small by practicing at least 30 minutes a day, and you’ll surprise yourself with how much you can pick up.
Feeling connected to your culture is a beautiful thing. It can help you feel one with yourself and your roots. Knowing where your family comes from and your family’s history is something you could never put a price on. You’re continuing a legacy and honoring who and what made you. Instead of not owning where you’re from, be proud. Shout it from the rooftops. There is no one else on this earth like you, and your culture and identity play a big role in that.
Tell us how you connect with your culture by tagging us @HerCampusSJSU!