Had to take a cultural diversity training today. Some of my coworkers were surprised that I had experienced micro aggressions. Wonder how they would react if they knew the racism and prejudice that I have had to face. People trying to put me in a box and not being able to wrap their minds around the fact that I am not a walking stereotype.

My experience is one of trying to find the balance between two cultures. And not fully fitting into either. I constantly have to define myself.

Kujichagulia
To define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves.

I wrote a very angry poem in 1999 that began with those words. But i don’t wish to share it or continue to hold that anger paired with this principle because I now recognize that the principles of Kwanzaa come from a place of peace, hope & community.

Now I am not Black American nor can I speak from the Black experience. But the most important lesson I learned from this training today is that instead of focusing on our differences we need to embrace our similarities.  All of those in the training today came from very different cultural backgrounds and experiences. ALL of us were raised to respect each other. And if you break down every argument, every side, every protest…..what you will find is a cry for respect!

WE MATTER!!