Self-Identity vs. Perceived Identity:

Navigating the Complex Landscape of Personal and Societal Perceptions

Introduction

In my last article, I discussed Paris Jackson identifying as a Black woman. While I will not dismiss her cultural identity of having a Black family and being raised within a Black home and Black community, I will say that there are deeper implications to those who are PERCEIVED as non-Black and those who are coded or ‘clocked’ as Black. In this article we will discuss how having a trans-racial identity is only possible for those who are perceived as white. We will also discuss perceived identity vs self-identity.

In the intricate web of human identity, two primary concepts often intersect and sometimes clash: self-identity and perceived identity. Self-identity is how individuals perceive themselves, encompassing their personal beliefs, values, culture, and experiences. Perceived identity, on the other hand, is how others view us, often influenced by societal norms, stereotypes, and biases. Understanding the dynamic between self-identity and perceived identity is crucial for fostering a society that values authenticity and respects individual experiences. As we begin let’s start with the creation of race within the United States of America and it’s profound impact.

The Racial Construct and the Stripping of Ethnic Identity

The concept of race as a social construct has had profound implications on the identities of individuals across all racial and ethnic backgrounds. From its inception, the racial construct not only stripped Black and Indigenous people of their identities and rights but also stripped white-bodied individuals of their ethnic and cultural diversity. This construct was designed to uphold whiteness—a socio-economic and political stance created in 1619—to delineate who could earn money, who could vote, and who could possess certain rights in the burgeoning slavery economy of America.

The Erasure of Ethnic Diversity Among White-Bodied People

1. Homogenization of European Ethnicities:

• Diverse Origins: Prior to the establishment of the racial construct, European immigrants to America came from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, including Irish, Italian, German, and Polish, each with their own distinct cultures, languages, and traditions.

• Whiteness as a Unifying Identity: Over time, these diverse ethnicities were amalgamated into a singular category of "whiteness." This process involved the erasure of ethnic distinctions to create a homogeneous group that could be easily distinguished from non-white populations.

2. Loss of Cultural Richness:

• Cultural Assimilation: As European ethnic groups were absorbed into the category of whiteness, many cultural practices, languages, and traditions were lost or diluted. This assimilation was often driven by the need to fit into the dominant culture to gain social acceptance and economic opportunities.

• Generational Disconnect: The loss of ethnic identity created a generational disconnect, where subsequent generations of white-bodied individuals had limited understanding or connection to their ancestral cultures and histories.

The Socio-Economic and Political Creation of Whiteness

1. Origins in 1619:

• Defining Boundaries: The concept of whiteness was formalized in 1619 as a means to establish clear boundaries between who could access economic and political power in the American colonies. This delineation was crucial in maintaining control over the labor force and resources.

• Economic and Political Privilege: Whiteness conferred privileges such as the right to own property, the right to vote, and the ability to earn money. These privileges were systematically denied to non-white individuals, reinforcing a hierarchy that placed white-bodied people at the top.

2. Legal and Social Frameworks:

• Codification of Race: Laws were established to codify the distinctions between white and non-white individuals, further entrenching the socio-economic and political advantages of whiteness. These laws included restrictions on land ownership, voting rights, and access to education and employment.

• Business and Wealth Accumulation: Whiteness was instrumental in the accumulation of wealth and business opportunities. By restricting economic rights to white-bodied individuals, the racial construct ensured that wealth and power remained concentrated within this group, perpetuating systemic inequalities.

The Impact on Black and Indigenous Identities

1. Stripping of Cultural Identity:

• Enslavement and Colonization: The imposition of the racial construct involved the violent stripping of Black and Indigenous peoples' identities. Enslavement and colonization disrupted cultural practices, languages, and social structures, leaving lasting scars on these communities.

• Forced Assimilation: Policies aimed at assimilating Black and Indigenous people into white-dominated society further eroded their cultural identities. Practices such as residential schools for Indigenous children and the suppression of African cultural traditions were tools of this assimilation.

2. Denial of Rights and Opportunities:

• Economic Disadvantages: The racial construct ensured that Black and Indigenous individuals were systematically excluded from economic opportunities. They were denied access to land, resources, and fair wages, perpetuating cycles of poverty and disenfranchisement.

• Political Exclusion: Voting rights and political representation were also restricted, limiting the ability of Black and Indigenous communities to advocate for their interests and effect systemic change.

The Privilege of Racial Fluidity

The notion that one can choose to identify with a different race, ethnicity, or culture is a privilege largely afforded to white individuals. This phenomenon highlights the deep-seated inequalities and biases within our society, where only those who are perceived as white can fluidly navigate and claim identities that are not inherently theirs. For Black individuals or those perceived as Black, this fluidity is not only unattainable but also a stark reminder of the rigid and oppressive structures that govern racial identity.

The Privilege of Choice and Fluidity

1. The Option to Opt-In or Opt-Out:

• Selective Identity: White individuals who choose to identify with another race, ethnicity, or culture can often do so selectively and temporarily. They can opt-in to the cultural practices, aesthetics, and even struggles of another group without facing the systemic disadvantages that come with that identity.

• Reverting to Whiteness: When faced with adversity or discomfort, these individuals can revert to their white identity, thereby reclaiming the privileges and protections that come with being perceived as white.

2. Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Appreciation:

• Appropriation: When white individuals claim Blackness or other cultural identities, it often manifests as cultural appropriation. This involves adopting elements of a culture superficially, without understanding or respecting its significance and context. This is harmful as it exploits and trivializes the lived experiences of marginalized communities.

• Appreciation: Genuine cultural appreciation requires understanding, respect, and acknowledgment of the power dynamics at play. It also involves recognizing the privileges one holds and using them to support and uplift the communities being appreciated.

The Inaccessibility of Racial Fluidity for Black Individuals

1. Fixed Identity and Perception:

• Immutable Identity: For Black individuals or those perceived as Black, racial identity is largely fixed by societal perception. This means they cannot choose to navigate the world as anything other than Black. Their identity is continuously defined and constrained by systemic racism and societal biases.

• No Escape from Racism: Unlike white individuals who can opt-out of a claimed identity, Black individuals cannot escape the pervasive impacts of racism. Their experiences are deeply rooted in a history of discrimination and oppression that they cannot simply step away from.

2. Consequences of Racial Fluidity Claims:

• Invalidation of Lived Experiences: When white individuals claim Blackness or other ethnic identities, it invalidates the genuine struggles and experiences of those who are inherently part of these communities. It diminishes the significance of their identities and reduces them to mere aesthetic choices.

• Exacerbation of Inequities: These claims reinforce existing power imbalances and perpetuate systemic inequalities. By exploiting the cultural and racial identities of marginalized groups, white individuals further entrench the hierarchies that privilege whiteness.

The Uniqueness of Black Identity

1. The Weight of Historical Context:

• Legacy of Oppression: Black identity is deeply intertwined with a history of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism. This legacy cannot be fully understood or authentically embodied by those who have not lived it. The historical context of Blackness is a fundamental aspect that shapes the collective and individual experiences of Black people.

• Resilience and Resistance: The resilience and resistance of Black communities in the face of ongoing oppression are central to Black identity. These aspects are born out of lived experiences that cannot be claimed or replicated by those outside the community.

2. The Inherent Challenges:

• Daily Realities: The daily realities of being Black include facing microaggressions, systemic barriers, and overt racism. These challenges are an integral part of Black identity and shape the worldview and experiences of Black individuals.

• Lack of Privilege: Unlike white individuals, Black people do not have the privilege of stepping away from their racial identity. They are continuously confronted with the consequences of systemic racism, which impacts every aspect of their lives.

Acknowledging Privilege and Respecting Boundaries

The ability to claim a racial or cultural identity not inherently one's own is a privilege that underscores the inequalities within our society. For white individuals, this fluidity is a manifestation of their systemic advantages and the flexibility afforded to them by societal structures. In contrast, Black individuals and those perceived as Black do not have the luxury of fluidity and are continuously defined by their racial identity in a way that shapes their entire existence. It is crucial to acknowledge these disparities and respect the boundaries of racial and cultural identities. Understanding the privileges of whiteness and the immutable nature of Blackness helps foster a more equitable and just society. It is imperative to support and uplift marginalized communities by recognizing their unique experiences and resisting the appropriation and exploitation of their identities.

Self-Identity: The Core of Personal Experience

1. Internal Understanding:

• Personal Beliefs and Values: Self-identity is deeply rooted in our beliefs, values, and personal experiences. It shapes our worldview and influences our actions and decisions.

• Cultural and Familial Background: Cultural heritage, family traditions, and community connections play significant roles in shaping self-identity. These elements provide a sense of belonging and continuity.

2. The Role of Autonomy:

• Personal Agency: Self-identity is about exercising personal agency and making choices that align with one's values and beliefs. It involves a continuous process of self-reflection and growth.

• Authenticity: Embracing self-identity allows individuals to live authentically, fostering a sense of inner peace and fulfillment.

Perceived Identity: The Lens of Societal Perception

1. External Perceptions:

• Societal Norms and Stereotypes: Perceived identity is shaped by societal norms and stereotypes. These external perceptions can sometimes conflict with an individual's self-identity, leading to misunderstandings and biases.

• Physical Appearance: Factors such as race, gender, and physical appearance often influence how others perceive us. These superficial traits can overshadow the complexities of self-identity.

2. Impact on Opportunities:

• Systemic Biases: Perceived identity can affect access to opportunities in education, employment, and social settings. Systemic biases and discrimination often stem from these external perceptions.

• Interpersonal Relationships: The way others perceive us can impact our relationships and interactions. Misunderstandings or assumptions based on perceived identity can create barriers to meaningful connections.

The Intersection of Self-Identity and Perceived Identity

1. Navigating Discrepancies:

• Identity Dissonance: When there is a significant gap between self-identity and perceived identity, individuals may experience identity dissonance. This can lead to stress, frustration, and a sense of invisibility.

• Resilience and Adaptation: Individuals often develop resilience and adaptive strategies to navigate the discrepancies between self-identity and perceived identity. This may involve advocacy, education, and building supportive communities.

2. Examples and Case Studies:

• Paris Jackson: As previously discussed, Paris Jackson identifies as Black due to her upbringing and cultural connections, yet she is often perceived as white due to her physical appearance. This disparity highlights the complexities of racial identity and societal perception.

• Transgender Experiences: Transgender individuals often face a significant gap between their self-identified gender and how they are perceived by society. This can result in challenges such as misgendering, discrimination, and lack of acceptance.

Embracing and Respecting Diverse Identities

1. Promoting Empathy and Understanding:

• Education and Awareness: Increasing awareness about the complexities of identity can foster empathy and reduce biases. Educational initiatives should highlight the diversity of human experiences and the importance of respecting self-identity.

• Inclusive Practices: Organizations and communities should adopt inclusive practices that honor and respect individual identities. This includes using correct pronouns, acknowledging diverse cultural practices, and addressing systemic biases.

2. Supporting Authenticity:

• Safe Spaces: Creating safe and supportive environments where individuals can express their self-identity without fear of judgment or discrimination is crucial. These spaces allow for authentic self-expression and community building.

• Advocacy and Allyship: Allies can play a significant role in supporting those whose self-identity may be marginalized or misunderstood. Advocacy efforts should focus on amplifying voices and addressing the systemic barriers that impact perceived identity.

The interplay between self-identity and perceived identity is a complex and ongoing negotiation that shapes individual experiences and societal dynamics. Recognizing and respecting the nuances of both self-identity and perceived identity is essential for fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society.

Conclusion

Understanding the dynamic between self-identity and perceived identity is crucial for dismantling supremacy culture and building a more inclusive and empathetic community. The privilege of racial fluidity, largely afforded to white-skinned individuals, underscores the deep-seated inequalities within our society. While white individuals may navigate and claim diverse identities without the burden of systemic oppression, Black individuals and those perceived as Black face inescapable marginalization.

This disparity highlights the importance of recognizing and respecting both self-identity and perceived identity. Supremacy culture has long dictated who holds power and privilege, often stripping individuals of their ethnic and cultural identities to uphold a homogenized concept of whiteness. By dismantling these oppressive structures and fostering a culture of authenticity and inclusivity, we can begin to address the systemic biases that perpetuate inequality.

Community building plays a pivotal role in this process. By creating safe spaces and promoting advocacy and allyship, we support individuals in expressing their true identities without fear of judgment or discrimination. Educational initiatives and inclusive practices further enhance our understanding and respect for the diverse tapestry of human experiences.

Ultimately, fostering a society that values and honors individual identities requires collective effort and commitment. By challenging supremacy culture and advocating for systemic change, we can build a world where everyone is empowered to live authentically and equitably. Together, we can create a community that celebrates diversity, promotes justice, and ensures that no one's identity is marginalized or overlooked.

With Love and Care,

Desireé B Stephens