THE COMPLEXITY OF CULTURAL PRIDE: My journey of navigating identity in a diverse world.
By LISA N.
Growing up in a multicultural neighbourhood, I've always been surrounded by a vibrant tapestry of traditions, stories, and cultural pride. My friends Sofia, Raj, and Aisha each bring unique elements of their backgrounds into our shared lives, and their pride in their heritage is something I deeply admire. Sofia, whose family hails from Mexico, delights in sharing her grandmother's recipes and vibrant traditions. Raj, whose parents are from India, speaks proudly of the rich history and cultural practices of his heritage. Aisha, with roots in Nigeria, often talks about the strength and resilience of her ancestors. Each of my friends expresses pride in their cultural identities without hesitation, finding empowerment and connection through their heritage.
Yet, as a White girl, I've often found myself struggling with the idea of expressing pride in my own racial identity. I am deeply proud of my personal achievements, my hard work, and the values I uphold, but when it comes to saying, "I'm proud to be white," I hesitate. This hesitation stems from a complex and multifaceted issue rooted in history, societal dynamics, and the potential implications of such a statement.
Historically, expressions of white pride have often been associated with exclusionary and supremacist ideologies. The phrase "proud to be white" has been co-opted by groups promoting racism and hate, creating a stigma around the expression. This historical baggage makes it difficult for me to separate genuine cultural pride from the negative connotations that have been attached to white identity in certain contexts.
Furthermore, the concept of whiteness itself differs from other racial and cultural identities. Whiteness is often viewed as a default or normative category in many societies, particularly in Western contexts. This normativity means that white culture is frequently seen as the unmarked standard, against which other cultures are compared. Unlike minority cultures, which have distinct traditions and histories that are celebrated in the face of marginalization, white culture lacks the same kind of cohesive, marginalized identity that fosters a need for cultural pride as a form of resistance and resilience.
My discomfort also stems from an awareness of the systemic privileges associated with being white. Acknowledging these privileges is crucial in understanding why expressions of white pride can be problematic. In societies where white people have historically held power, stating pride in being white can be perceived as a reinforcement of those power dynamics, rather than a celebration of cultural heritage. It can inadvertently overshadow the struggles and achievements of marginalized groups who continue to fight for equality and recognition.
Additionally, I recognize the importance of allyship and solidarity with my friends. I understand that my role, given my background, is to support and uplift the voices of those who have been historically oppressed. Expressing pride in being white could be seen as insensitive or dismissive of the ongoing struggles faced by my friends from minority backgrounds.
In navigating these complexities, I have found a different way to approach my identity. I choose to celebrate my heritage through actions rather than declarations. I learn about my ancestry, appreciate the cultural contributions of my forebears, and reflect on the values and traditions passed down through generations. I focus on being proud of the person I have become—my achievements, my character, and my commitment to equality and justice.
By doing so, I embrace a form of pride that is inclusive and empathetic. I acknowledge my heritage without falling into the pitfalls of historical and societal connotations. In celebrating my friends' diverse backgrounds, I also find joy in shared experiences and mutual respect, fostering a community where everyone's heritage is valued and honoured.
My journey highlights the importance of understanding the broader context of cultural pride. It underscores the need to navigate identity with sensitivity and awareness, recognizing that expressions of pride can carry different meanings depending on historical and social contexts. Through empathy and reflection, I have found a way to honour my background while contributing to a more inclusive and equitable society