Conversation Series - Looking For Community (CH)
As social creatures, humans are wired to seek community, and we find it in various facets of life: nationality, geographic location, ethnicity, religion, language, culture, hobbies, careers, and socio-economic status, to name a few. The universal desire to belong holds true for individuals of Afro-descent and parents raising children of Afro-descent as well.
Regardless of our origins, whether by birth, migration, or marriage/partnership, living in the heart of Europe as a person of Afro-descent or raising a child of Afro-descent in Switzerland inevitably brings the theme of community to the forefront, sooner rather than later. These experiences can be a mixed bag, encompassing both positive and negative moments that can sometimes lead to isolation. This isolation can stem from situations and spaces where you or your child are among the few people of color present, sometimes subject to experiences ranging from mild discomfort to outright hurtful and disrespectful treatment.
On one hand, you belong due to geographic location, citizenship, cultural assimilation, language, socio-economic class, and religion—Swiss nationality, cultural immersion, middle-class status, and fluency in one of the four national languages from birth or childhood. On the other hand, your belonging is often questioned and challenged due to generalized views, biases and assumptions about Blackness, African heritage, and what it means to be Swiss or European. When you or your child don't fit into stereotypical parameters, you're subjected to othering, micro and macro-aggressions, and, at times, outright physical, mental, and emotional hostility—prejudice and discrimination.
The experience of having your personhood and sense of belonging challenged, belittled, or othered can be profoundly unsettling. This sentiment takes on an even deeper significance when it occurs to your Afro-descent child. As a parent or caregiver, your instinct to protect your child goes into overdrive, compelling you to create affirming bubbles of safety within your home and among your close circle. These protective cocoons are woven from love, lived experiences you've possibly gathered, and a determination to mitigate the harsh realities of a racialized identity for your child
Within this sanctuary, you curate a diverse and representative environment for your child. This journey includes seeking out books, movies, and TV shows that reflect their heritage and identity. It extends to choosing diverse kita's (preschools), playgroups, activity groups, kindergartens, and schools that prioritize inclusivity and celebrate the richness of cultural and ethnic diversity.
Ultimately, your hope is to find a place where your child can truly belong, where they can feel safe and confident in their identity. It's a search for strength in numbers, for a community that understands and supports the unique challenges faced by Afro-descent children and their families. It's about creating a space of affirmation, celebration, comfort and vulnerability, not only for your child but also for yourself as you navigate the complexities of raising a multi-hyphenate child in a world that is still learning to fully appreciate the nuanced and pluralistic nature of diversity.
In an ideal world, we would all feel free to be ourselves, unguarded and evolving beyond stereotypes. This is a wish most of us extend to our children. However, due to the biases we all harbour, we must equip our Afro-descent children from a young age with the tools of deep self-love and self-preservation. This prepares them to find their own way in a space that might not always truly see them. Nevertheless, it takes a village, and this means seeking out others in a similar situation.
Navigating the complex terrain of identity, belonging, and community as a person of Afro-descent or a parent raising Afro-descent children in Switzerland is a multifaceted journey. It's about confronting both the positive and negative aspects of belonging while creating a supportive and nurturing environment for your child to thrive. It's also about finding strength in a community that understands and celebrates the beauty of diversity. Ultimately, it's a quest for belonging and empowerment in a world that is still the true value of inclusivity and acceptance.
Fortunately, through the ongoing work and efforts of BIPOC-focused NGOs, individuals, and activists here in Switzerland, the search for community is just a click away. The question comes down to what you are looking for in a community
How are you navigating the search for affirming community Switzerland? We would love to hear your learnings, tips and experiences. Share them with us at hello@afroswissfamilies.com.
