Exploring My Cultural Identity: Growing up Japanese in America
Growing up with bicultural roots can be both challenging and rewarding. As a Japanese-American, my identity has always been a topic of conversation, especially among those who are unaware of the rich cultural history and values of Japan. In this blog post, I will be sharing my personal experience and insights on what it means to grow up as a Japanese in America.
Integrating Two Cultures
Being bicultural means experiencing two different cultures at the same time, which can sometimes result in confusion and conflicts. Growing up, I often found myself trying to balance my American upbringing with the Japanese culture my family constantly practiced at home. From the types of food we eat to the way we celebrated holidays and family traditions, I felt like I had one foot in each culture.
One particular struggle I faced as a child was learning the Japanese language. I would often mix up English and Japanese words, which led to frustration and misunderstandings. However, this eventually led to a love for language and culture, and a desire to fully embrace my heritage.
Learning the Value of Respect
Respect is a fundamental value that is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. At an early age, I was taught to show respect to authority figures and to always be mindful of others. This meant using honorific language, bowing to show respect, and practicing etiquette in social situations.
I quickly realized that these cultural practices were not always the norm in American society. As a child, I struggled to understand why some people did not show respect to others. However, as I grew older and learned more about American culture, I realized that respect is shown in different ways, and that the values of each culture are unique and important.
Celebrating Diversity
Growing up as a Japanese-American has given me a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion. As a child, I was often the only Asian person in my class, which sometimes made me feel like an outsider. However, I learned to embrace my heritage and to appreciate the differences in others.
One of the ways my family celebrated diversity was through food. My mother would often cook Japanese dishes for dinner, and my father would take us out to try different types of cuisine. This opened my eyes to the vast array of cultural foods available in America, and made me appreciate the diversity in the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, growing up Japanese in America has shaped my identity in many ways. It has taught me the value of respect, the importance of embracing diversity, and the appreciation for the cultural heritage of both Japan and America. While it can be challenging at times, being bicultural has given me a unique perspective on life, and I will always treasure the experiences and memories that come with it.
