Conversation Series - Language in Navigating Identity Of Our Multi-Hyphenate Children
As we become more aware of the importance of accurately representing our children's diverse backgrounds, we are reflecting on the terms we use to describe them. How do we truly identify our children, while they are still developing the language to identify themselves? Should we focus on their nationalities like Malawian-Tanzanian-Swiss-American or use broader terms like "Afro-European/Afropean"? Do we rely on racial descriptors such as "Multiracial," "Mixed," "Mixed-race," "Bi-racial," or "Multi-ethnic"? Or do we simplify things based on how they look or how others perceive them, like calling them "Black," "White," Swiss, European, African, or "of Immigrant background"?
The concept of "race" itself is a social construct, deeply ingrained in our collective consciousness for centuries. However, as we explore the evolving discussions, language, and literature on identity, it becomes clear that we need to approach identification with sensitivity and thoughtfulness. There is no perfect or universally accepted terminology; instead, ongoing dialogue and consideration are necessary.
It's evident that we must continuously re-evaluate the terms we choose to identify our children. Identity is fluid and open to interpretation, both within society and within our own family and communities. Our children are more than the sum of the colour of their skin; they embody a rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and experiences that cannot be easily condensed into a single label.
Terms like "Multiracial," "Mixed," "Mixed-race," or "Bi-racial," are often used to describe individuals with birth parents from different racial backgrounds. While these terms attempt to capture the blending of diverse heritages, they can still be limiting in their ability to fully capture the complexities of identity. They may unintentionally reinforce the notion that a person's identity is solely defined by their racial makeup, overshadowing other crucial aspects such as cultural heritage, language, and personal experiences. Here, it is important to acknowledge that some individuals are comfortable with these terms, while others seek to move beyond them.
As caregivers and parents, we're learning that reducing our children's identities to simplistic binary “racial” categories overlooks the intricacies of their multi-ethnic and multicultural backgrounds. It fails to acknowledge the diverse experiences and cultural influences that shape their lives and the richness within their identities. While these terms may serve a purpose in societal understanding, we recognise that they do not fully encompass the complexity of our children's identities. Consequently, we have chosen to identify our children as Afro-Swiss/Afropean, highlighting the geographical and cultural aspects of their heritage, which allows for a broader appreciation of the diversity within the Afro-Swiss/Afropean experience.
Our aim is to create an environment where our children feel empowered to define their own identities, free from societal pressures or preconceived notions, equipping them with the tools to be their authentic selves. Achieving this requires continuous education for us as caregivers and parents, engaging in open and sometimes uncomfortable conversations, and actively listening to our children's thoughts and feelings about how they wish to be identified, even if it feels unfamiliar to us. We hope that they embrace the richness of their multi-ethnic and multi-cultural backgrounds, celebrating the diverse influences that have and will continue to shape them.
Throughout this ongoing process, we acknowledge that language alone can never fully capture the entirety of our children's identities. However, by participating in thoughtful conversations and continuously educating ourselves, we can ensure that the terms we use are respectful, inclusive, and reflective of our children's diverse backgrounds and experiences. We understand that as language evolves and discussions around identity progress, our understanding will deepen, and our approach to identification may also evolve. We ask for your patience and support on this journey.
How are you navigating language and raising your own multi-hyphenate children? We would love to hear your insights and experiences. Share them with us at hello@afroswissfamilies.com.
