UnMixed and Angry vs Mixed and Happy

A facebook page that I follow (Mixed and Happy) was recently attacked with negative, hateful comments.  We know that there are people out there (and a lot of them) who think that us mixed folks are an abomination.  Unfortunately, ignoring them and not giving them the time of day is easier said than done.  But, arguing with them is truly pointless.  Generally, they feel the way they feel and that is all there is to that.  Could some of them be open to changing their minds… hmmm… possibly?  In any case, in my humble opinion, the best way that we can launch a counterattack against those who shun our existence is to continue to advocate for who we are and our place in this world.  And I am not just being an advocate for myself; not just an advocate for my daughter and for my family; I am also being an advocate for every other mixed person in the world who deserves to exist without being harassed, demeaned and devalued. 

I would like to explore one comment that was made by an individual who does not support mixing races.  While not a racist (of course!), he felt that mixing races is essentially a crime against God and nation.  I wish I could explain, but I just don’t get it.  Anyhow, in support of not mixing races he was concerned that doing so would be to obliterate the distinct characteristics of individual races/ethnicities.  And why on earth would anyone want to do that?!  Well, I am going to go out on a limb and say that no one is interested in obliterating any race.  There is beauty in our diversity.  And truthfully, the world has evolved over time and we all change in some way, but we seem to retain the unique characteristics associated with the multitudes of racial/ethnic backgrounds as well as culture and heritage.  When races mix, there is pregnant opportunity to celebrate more of our diversity that we may not have embraced before.  Some of us would do it anyway, but for some, the merging with another race is the motivation for expansion. 

It is unfortunate that there are people in this world who feel the need to be so hateful.  But, I think I feel more pity than anger.  They are missing out on the richness of diversity and all the wonderful things it brings.  I am thankful for facebook pages like Mixed and Happy.  That is exactly what I am!  And I will continue to be an advocate for other Mixed and Happies.  Hate us or join us – we are the Highbred Nation and we are not going anywhere… check the 2010 Census! 

Thankful for Diversity

As the year comes to a close, we tend to reflect on where we have been and where we are going.  There is no question that the world is changing.  The 2010 Census demographic results will not  be available until February, but I am sure that they will show a marked increase in individuals claiming two or more races.  This population has remained invisible for much too long.  Many individuals with a mixed race background have not fit neatly into traditionally defined identity boxes and now there is at least a way to honor one's heritage without simply being labeled as 'other'. 

I am thankful to be surrounded by the positive examples of awareness and acceptance of the highbred nation.  Last year my family moved from Brooklyn, NY to Atlanta, GA.  Brooklyn is a city rich with diversity; in many ways it celebrates diversity and multiculturalism.  I had some concerns about what we would find in Georgia.  Thus far I have been inspired and encouraged.  We moved to a wonderfully diverse neighborhood.  Tonight we will be gathering with other neighbors at the home of a couple who have an adopted son who is biracial.  Other guests include a single mother with a beautiful adopted girl from Guatemala and a White couple with a Mexican adopted daughter as well as a biological daughter (the one with brown skin, hair and eyes; the other with fair skin, blond hair and blue eyes).  Our neighbors are White, Black, Asian, Latino and every other hybrid in between with children who are just as diverse in their racial and cultural makeup.  Our neighbors are gay, straight, christian, agnostic, atheist, democrats, republicans, single income, dual income... you get the picture. 

In addition to the move, I was one of 28 fortunate enough to be accepted into a competitive clinical mental health counseling program.  Diversity is so important in this program that it is infused into the curriculum.  We even have a class that is completely devoted to social and cultural issues.  I see a commitment to diversity in my workplace.  There are intentional conversations about ensuring that our community successfully engage in intercultural activities which promote competence in their lives.  I look at my wonderful network of friends and marvel at the range of diversity. 

As 2010 comes to a close, I feel thankful.  And I feel hope.  I feel hope that my sweet highbred daughter will grow up in a world that embraces her and celebrates her and does not try to confine her to a box with a label.  I wish you all many blessings and look forward to sharing with you in the coming year.  Happy New Year and God bless you!