One could say that identity is linked to how you
perceive yourself or how society identifies you.
But when you come from a foreign country, to a completely new city, you become one of those marginalized identities, especially in an institutional setting, where narratives and histories are constantly forced onto you. Because of this its so easy to forget the rhythms of the village and transform with the activities of the city and a new identity which is not inherent.
I asked my friends the other day. What makes someone African? Is it the fact that you were born and raised in Africa?Or is Africanism something that is celebrated through cultural norms,traditions, gestures, rituals and respect, irrespective of whether you live in Africa or not? Or perhaps even whether your'e black or not? Its almost like existing in the Afropolitan city as, Minna Salami puts it.
Minna Salami's blog on Afropolitan issues (A must view)
It's interesting because we all have different views and answers to these questions.Lets just say this conversation didn't end in smiles, tempers definitely rose and points were made. Of course everyone felt passionately about their opinion and even when it didn't align with their own, acknowledgement was found in others truths.
In colonial times, identity was so separated to the extent that cities and homes were so distinct in terms of public and private spaces. While the rich and powerful lived in the colonial city, the indigenous people settled in the peripheries. Thus proving, how identity was and still is influenced by colonialism, and perhaps is the root to answering these questions.
For me identity is so important, especially as a black woman who constantly has to assert herself in society. When identities are stolen or misinterpreted through outside lenses its common to feel frustrated or even helpless, but solace can be found in knowing your truth.
In Lesley Loko's warp,weft, wend he writes that identity is blending or merging together of tradition or Western culture in an attempt to find a voice that is authentically ours.
But to what extent should we allow Western ways of thinking to infiltrate reality on the ground here in Africa?
For Lokko, formal and experiential juxtapositions were the core or root to to the transformation of identity and traditions. He uses the terms warp wend and waft to impose the idea that if done correctly or masterfully a new identity could emerge. In the same way if representation is placed in the hands of those who are in tune with customs and ways of life, true identity is reflected.
What are your views on identity?
What are your views on identity?
Love and light,
T