What are your intersections?
I am a black/Japanese femme, who identifies as queer. I also identify as being Intersex.
What is your background growing up?
I grew up in a predominately white neighborhood, what would be considered "middle class." Unfortunately my upbringing lacked resources for my identity, as well as my existence itself. Getting through schooling was difficult because of white supremacy and systemic oppression. None of these systems, this world itself- cares about black women or femmes. And it's sad that I have to raise my children and let them know those truths. But without them, our children get disposed by this system just like I did.
How do your intersections affect you?
Years ago, I found out that I am half Japanese. I grew up in a black household, so navigating this newfound sector of my life has been eye opening and difficult. Based on my findings, my family originated out of Hokkaido, Japan. I'm still looking into this, but black-asians struggle with this identity because of colorism. I'm not "asian enough" because my skin is brown. And even though I coincidentally speak Japanese and Korean fluently, the judgement is still there. I was in a relationship (and very lost) when I made this realization, as well as navigating blackness. I didn't become self aware of my identity until around that time- which created some major life changes. I realized just how disposable my existence was, and how it affected me as a person. Anti blackness is rampant and real. In every single non-white/non-black individual there are levels of anti blackness and colorism that exist. If nbpoc aren't addressing this daily, it creates toxic behavior and culture. That, currently is the biggest change I'm having to make. Protecting my blackness and loving myself means I have to separate myself from people who are not allies- or those who do not consider my existence and how systemic oppression is at work. It is crucial for black bodies to create their own narratives within these walls. Your mind is absolute freedom, because it does not exist anywhere else.
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#TWintersectionalfridays: Space to explore intersections of identity and systems of oppression. Space to tell your story. Space to listen. Every Friday of 2019. // Week 05/52. 'Diamond' / 8x8 in. / mixed media on paper