As a mixed white American, or mutt, I witness in this society a broad range of cultural identities among minorities. It is common to hear about the Black, or Hispanic, or Asian communities in my city. Knowing friends that belong to each of these communities they feel they are connected and strengthened by this connection. They are also concerned about specific issues concerning their community. But what about me? As a white man I feel I am lacking any identity at all. What are the options for cultural identity of a thoughtful white male in a mixed society. I don't like the show Friends, I don't exploit people economically, I don't like Nascar and country music but people of other ethnic communities have historically not accepted me as being as down for the cause of true social equality and brotherly love and understanding, which in my heart I truly am! What can a mutt do?
2007-08-13 11:11:02 · 17 answers · asked by mattmakesart 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Cultures & Groups ➔ Other - Cultures & Groups
The examples of the show Friends and Nascar and Country music was a comment on discrimination that has been directed at me in the past, not what I feel defines "whiteness". And to say Swedish people are different than Italians and I should celebrate both heritages is like saying I should celebrate my Paleolithic heritage. My ancestors were from Europe, I can't identify with Europeans, I'm a white American.
2007-08-13 12:02:28 · update #1
I wouldn't worry about it. Though connections and groups are nice, you have to appreciate the freedom and individuality granted to us due to the lack of shared past and socialized generalizations about us. We lack connections because we have no one biased against us, discriminating against, no mutual enemy. For that, be grateful.
2007-08-13 11:18:13 · answer #1 · answered by Heidi S 2 · 3⤊ 1⤋
If your idea of "white" is a culture that likes the Friends show, exploits people economically, and likes Nascar and country music, then you really are out of touch. In fact, given the hatred you show against "whites" due to your derogatory comments, I suspect you aren't very "white" at all.
The first thing you should do is educate yourself. The term "white" means nothing in reality. Are all brown people the same? How about yellow people? Red people? Ethnicity cannot be summed up in a color.
If you really care, find out who your ancestors were. It's about geography, not color. Swedes are not ethnically the same as Italians (but both are considered "white"). Look up the culture of your ancestors. Bond with others of similar ancestry if you wish. As a "mutt", you have plenty to choose from. Or celebrate them all.
Just stop hating. There is no pride or honor in hate.
2007-08-13 11:26:34 · answer #2 · answered by AJ 6 · 3⤊ 1⤋
I say celebrate your individuality and celebrate The Human Race - we're all part of that group.
Though - I don't understand what watching Friends, exploiting people economically, or NASCAR has to do with your race?
2007-08-13 14:55:03 · answer #3 · answered by WatershipDown 1 · 3⤊ 0⤋
To be a white male means you will be discriminated against in the work place in the political circles and looked down on by people inferior to you.. Oh and you will work your azz off trying to pay for other peoples free stuff .. that is the privilege of being white ..No gobberment aid . no scholarships awarded by a white foundation .. no consideration in the judicial system for a sorry home life .. yeah i love my white rights
2016-05-17 05:33:58 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Your white identity is very pronounced - not sure why you don't feel it. My own understanding of white American culture is one that i associate with the pursuit of happiness, justice etc. All you need to do is go anywhere else and you'll feel it. There are definitely a ton of things to be proud of!
2007-08-13 11:17:51 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 1⤋
First of all, it is not very cool to call yourself a mutt. You have a great blend of both cultures. You get the opportunity to be accepted by both. Be creative. Make the most out of what you are.
2007-08-13 11:52:25 · answer #6 · answered by Kim 5 · 0⤊ 2⤋
I'm white and I too do not identify with the things you mentioned...that certainly doesn't mean that I have no identity. Don't ever let anyone make you feel that way.
2007-08-13 11:16:09 · answer #7 · answered by fun_purple_beach 6 · 4⤊ 0⤋
Think of yourself as a proud American, as we do have a culture and identity. Don't envy these "communities" within our country.
2007-08-13 12:18:37 · answer #8 · answered by Johanna 4 · 0⤊ 1⤋
My guess is you've been hanging around too many minorities and have become convinced you "need" to relate with some ethnic group. Most white majority people don't really experience these feelings under normal circumstances. Race isn't really an issue unless it's MADE an issue for you or you make it one. You're seeking something you don't need.
2007-08-13 11:20:13 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 4⤊ 3⤋
Are you a nerd? Your ID can be white and nerdy like Wierd Al.
2007-08-13 11:18:43 · answer #10 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋