@ebrown p,
ebrown p wrote:
Art,
How much do you keep from each of your ethnicities? Have you kept the language, food or customs of either of your halves?
I think I've done well at keeping it balanced. I think the ambiguous identity has inspired me to be a bit of a family historian for both halves.
On my Japanese side, I do speak the language. I studies for many years in school. My father doesn't even speak the language, so I didn't learn at home. Many food items and recipes are passed down to me as well (although now that I've adopted a vegan diet,, I partake in fewer of them). I practice aikido, which is new, but many cultural themes/philosophies are explored there.
On my Scot side, I know our family tarter and plaid. This is mostly thanks to my cousins who did the research about a decade ago. I also know the lineage back to when they immigrated. When I grew up, we ate many dishes that were from that side of the family. I've always wanted a kilt, I'm not going to lie. In Seattle, you can buy "ultilikilt," and I've debated it more than once.
I know how immigration changed both family names.
Tanoue became Tagami on my father's side.
Karr became Kerr on my mother's side.
Growing up in the Midwest, I had more white friends, and so I felt pretty comfortable with that side of me. I think on most days I identify with that side of me. I rarely get to practice or use my Japanese, but I feel good when I do.
A
R
T
