Tradition and Culture in Self-Identity

Introduction

A number of readings in this chapter address an aspect of family tradition/cultural heritage and individual identity and fulfilment. Cultures and traditions are learned and passed down from generations dating back to the 1800s when African Americans were slaves (Person, 2009). Maintaining a close relationship with family members is an asset; since we all rely on each oher because the economy is in critical state right now. Society, family, peers also can influence people, or religion to dislike certain groups of people. This is because many individuals would mould themselves to be what society or family wants them to be (Missy & Alan, 2004, 497). My parents were born in the United States. However, their heritage is biracial, African-American and Caucasian. People who are born mixed race contribute to and/or inhibit an individual's self-identity. This means that individuals can face hard times trying to adopt other cultures apart from their own for example, not knowing which race to choose on employment applications or school forms. There are certain values that could be seen as imposed upon the members of that particular society. My three brothers, two sisters, and I were all born in the Louisiana. Our family has preserved our heritage by telling stories of our ancestors came from Africa and ended up in Virginia. African American tradition is one where soul food meals are cooked on Sundays and holidays, like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Meat like chicken and pork are normally fried, and vegetables like greens and cabbages are seasoned with large amount of salt and lots of pork.

Discussion

My family taught us to celebrate and incorporate our culture and heritage rather than ignore it. Beyond its literal meaning, what are the broader implications of the cliché "keeping the family name alive"? Or has this cliché Outlived its validity? I have been taught about “Keeping the family name alive”. It is valid when it means keeping the family unit intact and providing support at all times for other family members that celebrate the successes in life and mourn the sorrows in life. For example, when my grandfather turned 90, 75 relatives showed up for the birthday party. My grandfather knew he was loved. When dad died, even more relatives showed up to mourn and celebrate his funeral.

The cliché above mentioned can only be invalidated by two situations. The first is the break-up of the family unit, or by the fact that so many children grow up in single-parent households and “63% of African Americans, homes are headed by a single parent (Jarrett, 1994). The family is an impediment to peace often times, instead of a support. The second is when the family imposes pressure on a member to be the same, and never to venture out into the world.For example, in the movie, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” when she took a job at the travel agency of her aunt, she falls in love with Ian Miller (John Corbett), who was a teacher. Ian Miller is tall ...