Hey guys!
The first subject I want to bring up is of single stories and different experiences that I have had; whether on the receiving end or the one actually making an assumption. Everyone is naive about some subject, where we realize this or not. This summer, I was required to watch a Ted Talk with Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie who talks about the dangers of a "single story" (http://ed.ted.com/on/oQQimtYK) and actually found it quite interesting and enjoyable. Now what is a single story? A single story is a one-sided way of looking at the world; a single thought or idea which decides all of a subject in a person's head. When I was younger, I hear stories about "the poor boys and girls" without very good schooling. Now although this is true in some countries of Africa, I now know it certainly doesn't include all of them. There are plenty of well educated western parts of Africa as well.
The first subject I want to bring up is of single stories and different experiences that I have had; whether on the receiving end or the one actually making an assumption. Everyone is naive about some subject, where we realize this or not. This summer, I was required to watch a Ted Talk with Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie who talks about the dangers of a "single story" (http://ed.ted.com/on/oQQimtYK) and actually found it quite interesting and enjoyable. Now what is a single story? A single story is a one-sided way of looking at the world; a single thought or idea which decides all of a subject in a person's head. When I was younger, I hear stories about "the poor boys and girls" without very good schooling. Now although this is true in some countries of Africa, I now know it certainly doesn't include all of them. There are plenty of well educated western parts of Africa as well.
I have also been on the receiving end of the single story. In the past, I have hidden my race and said I was Native American and Spanish, but not specifically said "Mexican". I have found myself doing this because I hate the stereotypes which come with this title. No, I don't speak spanish. No, I don't eat beans for dinner every night. No, I don't celebrate Cinco de Mayo. These little stereotypes (or single stories) frustrate me quite a bit at times. I have to take a step back and remember that people don't say this to offend me, they do it out of their own naivety. As Adichie says,
"The single story creates stereotypes, and the problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story.”.
http://www.bellanaija.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/two-sides-to-every-story1-245x300.jpg
I have had the same experiences when I distinguish myself as Mexican, so I really understand the annoying feeling that comes when people question you with almost racist questions. Although you are right it is out of their own naivety. For you to not get upset, and be able to understand that they are questioning you because they honestly don't know, is a significant sign of your own intelligence and maturity. All in all great post and I love the quote and real emotions expressed too.
ReplyDeleteI have had some similar experiences, but I have to say I haven't struggled with telling people that I am Mexican. Mostly because the schools and neighborhood I come from is mostly Hispanic but I have gotten weird stares for being Mexican and although I have heard all the rude comments and stereotypes I just tell myself that those stereotypes aren't me and that what people say doesn't define who I am.
ReplyDeleteI love your honesty in this post. You do an awesome job actually defining the single story and your example is spot on. It really made me think about similar experiences my friends had in middle school. You put yourself out there in the post, and for that, I commend you.
ReplyDeleteStrong writing here, Rosalyn. Good voice.
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