Final Project: Bi-racial individuals

Intro/Reflection

After months of preparation and constant critique of books portraying children of bi-racial ethnicities, primarily individuals comprised of African American and European heritage, I have stumbled upon one overwhelming, consistent and disheartening truth: very few of these books exist, and of those that do, seldom can be considered quality literature. These types of text, however, in public circulation and capable of being found at local libraries, nearly all portray the offspring of a European father and African American mother. These parental roles and/or races are rarely interchanged and the characters remain static across texts. Historically, because men have been stereotypical portrayed as the breadwinner of the family and essentially “wear the pants” in romantic relationships, I would argue that this is the underlying, and possible unconscious foundation in this chosen characterization. In essence, it seems that interracial relationships are “okay” as long as the dominant European male is the one who has chosen a consensual cross-race relationship. Additionally, I noticed that a common theme existing across this form of multicultural literature was the presentation of a bi-racial female as the primary protagonist in the story. Again, this almost serves to say that as long as a consensual European male is the head of interracial familial relationships, then this form of lifestyle can be deemed acceptable. Obviously, this is quite problematic for several reasons. Not only does it degrade women, adhering to stereotypical male chauvinist traditions, but it also demeans and scrutinizes the validity of all interracial marriages, children, and familial units. Having read through nearly fifteen texts focused on issues of biracialism, this was the recurring trend. I did, however, come across two picture books and one novel that I felt positively reflected and highlighted the most important and culturally relevant aspects of being biracial. These chosen texts prove to be not only relatable to bi-racial readers and/or parents, but are also appealing to a plethora of children regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity. Expressing themes such as pride in one’s personal identity and privilege in association with multiple cultures, these books encourage young readers to embrace their own heritage as well as the heritage of those around them. Avoiding overstated, obvious, and laborious messages that seem to “hit the reader over the head”, the books I have chosen manage to convey these themes in a systematic yet subtle fashion, proving to be both an inviting and effective approach. Overall, I believe the following texts to be of utmost quality within the field of bi-racial multicultural literature and would whole heartedly incorporate any of the preceding books within my own future classroom.

Meyer, Carolyn. Jubilee Journey. New York: Harcourt Inc., 1997.

In this provocative and compelling sequel to White Lilacs, Carolyn Meyers, a noted, widely respected author infamous for her ability to attack issues of multiculturalism, tackles issues of racial segregation, degradation, and suppression that the Jefferson family had faced in previous decades. Growing up in a community of tolerance and acceptance, Emily Rose, the bi-racial daughter of an African American mother and European father, has been sheltered from such discrimination in a small town in Connecticut. However, when Emily Rose is invited to explore the Juneteenth Diamond Jubilee in Dillon, Texas by a great grandmother whom she has yet to meet, Emily Rose’s mother is anxious to escort her to this celebration embracing her African American culture and history. Following the journey of a lively, independent, refreshing female protagonist readers truly embark on an educational, eye-opening trail of multiculturalism in the south. As Emily Rose discovers what it truly means to be of bi-racial decent she begins to recognize that her mother’s lifelong claims have been truth: “Just tell them you’re not half anything, you’re double. Tell them you’ve got twice as much history, twice as much culture, twice as much of everything that counts. Tell them your family swims in a terrific gene pool. Tell them your family tree produces the sweetest, most delicious fruit” (20). Through the historical accounts and newly found relationship Emily Rose forms with her African American identity, pride over prejudice becomes the driving influence.

Davol, Marguerite W., and Irene Trivas. Black, White, Just Right! Morton Grove: Albert Whitman & Company, 1993.

Written for, and inspired by, her just-right grandchildren, Marguerite W. Davol captures the “best of both worlds” in her endearing and energetic portrayal of a young, bi-racial girl of African and European decent. Focusing on the cultural, social, and personal differences existing between the child’s African American mother and European father, they serve to be complimentary, “just right” qualities when combined into the characteristics possessed by their daughter. Not only does the focus of diversity lie on physical features such as skin color, height, and hair texture, but is also inclusive of dynamic characteristics such as hobbies, appreciation of the arts, personal tastes in food, and choice of music. These dichotomous representations and variance of key points of difference offer a refreshing, yet subdued perspective on the positive qualities of bi-racial children. Rather than viewing the possession of two cultures as a deficit, Davol manages to present this critical social stigma in a positive, privileged, and honorable light. The vivid brush strokes present in Irene Trivas illustrations make use of a broad color scheme and combine a plethora of shades and images reinforcing themes of the beauty that exists in a blended identity and cultural heritage. Whether you’re of mixed ethnicity and cultural heritage, black, or white, this book is just right!

Edmonds, Lyra, and Anne Wilson. An African Princess. Great Britain: Doubleday, 2004.

This inspiring fictional tale by Lyra Edmonds tells the story of Lyra, a young girl who experiences the insecurity that comes with occupying a bi-racial, African American and European, identity whilst combating constant questioning and ridicule raised by her peers. Though Lyra’s mother continuously praises her mixed heritage by referring to her as an “African Princess”, Lyra begins to see her identity as a plight rather than a privilege. On a conquest to assist in Lyra’s understanding and cultural acceptance, Lyra’s family embarks on a journey from Europe to Africa in search of Taunte May, a wise knowledgeable local enlisted to teach Lyra about her heritage. Through the ornate, elaborate illustrations artistically crafted by Anne Wilson, Lyra’s search for her identity is expertly paralleled by the colorful and culturally dynamic representations. Confronting several socio-cultural issues, Edmonds clearly conveys underlying themes of not only racial and cultural acceptance but pride in such unique disparities. As delicately phrased by the carefully constructed character of Taunte May, “Remember to be proud of who you are” (22). “Now when they say, ‘You’re an African Princess? Don’t be silly!’ I walk tall and say, ‘I’m Lyra. I’m an African princess. That’s me” (23). An African Princess delivers an astounding and captivating tale marinated in socio-cultural issues, demonstrating the importance of taking pride and pleasure in one’s identity.

Dutro, Elizabeth, Elham Kazemi, Ruth Balf, Ruth Galvan, and Richard Meyer. "The Aftermath of "You're Only Half": Multiracial Identities in the Literacy Classroom." (2005).

This article, centered around a 4^th/5^th grade class project focusing on the exploration of their cultural history and presentation of the accumulated information to other classrooms within the school, raises several crucial issues about what it means to identify with a culture and how one validates his or her own heritage. More specifically, upon presenting their multicultural projects, three bi-racial children’s identity was unjustly called into question by their peers causing frustration, humiliation, and above all else, confusion. One student in particular shared a fellow schoolmates’ response to his project, citing “He’s only half. He’s not really from South Africa” (2). Having all received similar responses and inquiries, the three bi-racial children raised their concerns to their classmates promoting a rich discussion focused on identity, race, and multicultural backgrounds. In addition, this class strived to dissect the complexities of categorical components often associated with race and surface strict binaries existing within standard societal discourse. As the author states, “These biracial children pointed to their own and others’ racial categories, including whiteness, and thus, began to question the dichotomy between ‘white’ and ‘of color’ (8). In reflecting upon the discussion, project, and hurt feelings that subsequently resulted, the teacher offered suggestions and solutions for incorporating bi-racial children within the classroom and allowing them to feel culturally and socially accepted. She states, “Whether discussion of race are raised through children’s projects or through the literature we bring into classrooms, teachers can encourage critical discussions by posing questions that encourage children to view issues from multiple perspectives, to interrogate their own and others; assumptions, and to construct us even as we question those ideas”(9). She goes on to suggest guiding questions that can be used to support a critical literacy classroom and are effective starting points for crucial discussions of race. These questions include asking who benefits from the text, in whose interest is the text written, what was the purpose of the text, how would someone else have experienced the text differently, and what beliefs or values about race lie behind the statements. Overall, the author expresses that the only way to overcome issues of multiculturalism and diversity is through continuous discussion, exploration, and education. Making use of quality pieces of literature is an excellent resource to utilize to begin these essential debates.

PARTICIPATION!

Today, one of our fellow classmates asked me, "How come you don't usually participate in class..you didn't say anything yesterday" After thinking about this comment I realized that is actually rather true and, indeed, I do not typically participate in whole group discussion. Debating hot topics has always made me extremely uncomfortable and anxious. As comments are brewing and discussion becomes heated, I will, without fail, be the girl in the corner slowly inching down in her seat and averting all eye contact with others. Though Deb discourages us from becoming paralyzed and failing to say anything at all as a result of paranoia about saying the wrong thing, I cannot help but let this intrusive form of thinking dominate my mindset. I have never thought about the various reasons underlying my feelings until I realized that my behavior was noticeable by others in the class. Coming from a strict private catholic highschool (and elementary and middle school for that matter) it has been quite difficult for me to adjust to the radical views presented in courses at Michigan State University. I think my discomfort then, does not necessarily lie in the fact that I disagree with the issues being discussed, but rather lies in that these controversial issues simply maintained a "dont ask, dont tell" position in my former educational experience and were certainly never openly discussed. Though I have attended Michigan State for 4 years now, I still have not been able to overcome my reservations and it is frustrating. I think the issues we are discussing in this course are fascinating, crucial topics of conversation, however, I just cannot bring myself to be one to openly engage in the dialogue and discourse of discussion. Does anyone else struggle with this or have suggestions for overcoming this plight? I guess I am posting about my issues surrounding the discourse of hot topics because I worry that if I am not even able to discuss these issues with my peers, then how will I ever feel comfortable introducing them into a classroom. And, suppose I do sporadically find the courage to discuss these issues with children, how would I ever feel confident enough in my choice to stand my ground when parents and/or school administration question my motives? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Boy Meets Boy/Posting

After reviewing my past posts I realized I really need to get on the ball and start commenting more about my thoughts in regards to literature! I think it has been so difficult for me to make routine postings because I have felt that my thoughts need to be concise, informative, and worthy of publication. In essence, if I could not collect my thoughts in a unique and creative package then I opted out of making any post at all. Strangely enough, after reading Boy Meets Boy I was able to understand that such reductive thinking is extremely problematic. Thinking in binaries is not terribly wise when so many aspects of society, such as GLBT members, do not necessarily fit into a neat and tidy package with clear lines and limitations. Take Infinite Darlene for example, it would be nearly impossible to place restrictions and limitations on the complexity of her character. There are so many unique aspects comprising such an individual and reductive either/or thinking only serves to label and hierarchically classify people based on superficial and irrelevant characteristics. Overall, this book has just allowed me to see that life's issues do not have to be black or white, and this includes my wall postings. If I feel like making a completely random and sporadic post with free flowing thoughts, various observations, completely lacking direction or agenda then I need to accept and appreciate it for it is! Embrace things that are new and unfamiliar; embrace and/or thinking..

P DIDDY

So I was reading through random news headlines today and came across "Ciroc: Only Light Skinned Women Allowed for Ciroc Ads". For those of you who do not know, Ciroc is a brand of liquor produced and represented by P. Diddy, an African American music artist and ever increasing entrepreneur. After reading the story and examining the original casting call for the upcoming Ciroc commercial video shoot, it indeed requests women who are: "White, Hispanic, or light skinned African American". This really struck me because P. Diddy, an insider, is essentially perpetuating and upholding common stereotypes traditionally deriving from an outsiders point of view. In addition, it seems as if this behavior is acceptable because he is an "insider" of the African American culture. I could not help but ponder what the reaction may be had someone like Justin Timberlake, an outsider, posted a similar casting call for his next music video shoot. I only happened to stumble upon this casting call because I was skimming a popular celebrity news website. However, had the tables been turned, I feel fairly confident that Justin Timberlake's face would be posted on every news channel, and/or newspaper labeling him as a racist and a bigot. In my opinion, this discrepancy should not occur. I think it is equally as concerning, problematic, and disheartening for P. Diddy to essentially encourage stereotypes and hierarchically categorize members of the African American Race. It makes me really sad to think that in this day and age light skinned women are still receiving preferential treatment in comparison to those having a darker complexion. Skin color is just that, a color. It is certainly not determinant of one's level of attractiveness, ability, level of intelligence, etc. Overall, I just found several aspects of the insider/outsider debate existing within the restrictions placed upon this casting call and felt fairly discouraged to see that it was seemingly "okay" for this behavior to occur because P. Diddy is an insider. In my opinion, regardless of the ethnic orientation of one making these demands, it is unacceptable across the board.


Here is the Original Casting Call:

La Noche de los Rabanos

As I'm reading Becoming Naomi Leon, I cannot help but become increasingly more interested in what these elaborate radish carvings entail! I began to do some searching and found the following link:

http://gomexico.about.com/od/festivalsholidays
/ig/Radish-Festival-Photos/

As it turns out, there is an entire gallery of photos taken at the La Noche de los Rabanos celebration! The artists' talent and the intricate detail that goes into these carvings is absolutely fascinating! Hopefully you all can take a quick look.

Here are just a few of my favorites:

Living With Disabilities

In relation to the recently read text, Al Capone Does My Shirts, I found a YouTube video that was exposed to me in a CEP class last semester. It depicts what life would be like if you woke up one morning and found yourself to be "disabled". I find this extremely interesting and relevant in that it offers us a new perspective and truly enables us the opportunity to see what life would be like and how we would feel if roles were reversed...

1

Clip from "Talk" by...

PosterBrat

Sydney Taylor Award

As taken from The Sydney Taylor Book Award Association of Jewish Libraries, the mission of this award is as follows: "The purpose of the Sydney Taylor Book Award is to encourage the publication of outstanding books of Jewish content for children, books, that exemplify, the highest literary standards while authentically portraying the Jewish experience. We hope that official recognition of such books will inspire authors, encourage publishers, inform parents and teachers, and intrigue young readers. We also hope that by educating readers about the Jewish experience, we can engender pride in Jewish readers while building bridges to readers of other backgrounds."

NOTE: If any professionals in this particular field have any additional information or insight to offer regarding the Sydney Taylor Award, I would be very interested to gain new knowledge and understanding.

The Saga Continues..

The more we delve into multicultural literarcy through our discussion and readings, the more complex the issue of insider vs. outsider becomes. This week's readings were an absolute testament to this fact. While Aronson argued that the winner of specific book awards should not be pre-determined based upon the racial and/or cultural identity of the author, Pinkney counteracted this claim by expressing the absolute need for awards that forefront authors of a specific race allowing those books to be easily identifiable to communities desiring diverse literature. While I think that both of these individuals made extremely convincing points and valid arguments in support of their case, I feel that Pinkney took Aronson's article out of context and seemingly misconstrued what he was trying to say. It seemed to me that Aronson's argument was that the criterion of these words was in need of adjustment and reassessment. More specially, he was focusing on technicalities of the wording of some of the established criteria and pointed out the exclusion of individuals that this wording perpetuated. He was not saying that multicultural literature did not have a significant place in the world, rather simply said it is important to focus on the content of the material rather than simply the ethnicity of who wrote it. This reminded me of a point that was made during our class debate. Someone stated that they had a relative of Native American descent yet if this relative was asked to write a culturally diverse novel about individuals deriving from the Native American community, she would have few points of reference and little insight to offer. I feel like this is an excellent example of what Aronson was trying to say; just because you are of a certain race does not necessarily mean you have truly experienced the associated culture and have the authority to write a valid piece of literature regarding that culture. I felt like Pinkney, rather than logically assessing the actual criteria and wording of the awards, spoke from an emotional standpoint and was not able to view Aronson's argument reasonably. She seemed to think that Aronson was saying the awards in themselves had no place in society and were invalid, rather than his actual argument that they simply needed to be adjusted in order to truly recognize the talent of the artists and honor them based upon ability. He was not suggesting that these awards should be done away with, rather maintained a promotion of multicultural literature focusing on the content of the text vs. identity of the author. Had Pinkney truly understood the argument Aronson was trying to make, I feel she may have had a different reaction or response. This is, however, simply my opinion, and like I said before, I can certainly see the validity in both of their arguments. I am truly beginning to understand just how complicated the insider vs. outsider debate can be.

The Blog Log

I also would like to say that the blog is going very well. I really enjoy having some freedom with what I choose to post and/or discuss in relation to the novels or articles we have read. Whereas I view blogs for many of my other classes as a chore, I look forward to conveying my thoughts and ideas on this blog because I know that they will not be confined to a specific question/answer format. It is refreshing to be able to include any information that I find meaningful or relevant to class discussion. Overall, I enjoy blogging for this course and have learned alot through my ability to read my peers' blogs as well. It is always educational and entertaining to hear a new perspective on things and see how others view the same issues. I look forward to continuing this process...

Loca En La Cabesa

After completing Bronx Masquerade I am completely in awe of the author's ability to create this simplistic yet intricate plot expressive of the ways in which all of our lives are inextricably tied together. Though each character faced their own, individual battles, whether it be with domestic violence, insecurity with physical aspects of oneself, feeling loca en la cabesa, or suffering a lack of motivation to engross oneself in academics, they each seemed to be bonded to one another through the poetry they shared and comfort of the environment from which this was done. In Jaceline Woodson's aticle "Who Can Tell My Story", she states, "It tells its own story, our language does, and woven through it are all the places we've been, all that we've seen, experience held close, good and bad" (269). I feel like this quote perfectly sums up the significant of, and intent behind Nikki Grimes, Bronx Masquerade; to use one's lanugage and discourse not only to convey an experience through the actually words themselvs but to convey emotions, feelings, and understanding amongst broad populations of students. In essence, to use poetry as a segue or means of forming meaningful relationships based upon shared experiences, backgrounds, or familiar circumstances. In this way, the students within the novel began to see a little bit of themselves in each other. They were able to view their peers not only as the label that they inevitably carried, but as unique individuals possesive of qualities much deeper than surface level facades. Through Grimes piece, she was able to communicate the importance and fragility of our lives and demonstrate the ways in which we are all linked whether it be through our shared experiences, or collective emotions felt at one point in time or another. Rather than robottically viewing individuals deriving from diverse cultures as adversaries, we are painted a portrait of acceptance, understanding, and empathy. Through the characterization and insertion of poetry within this piece, we can begin to dissect the various ways that all of our lives are inextricably bound together and realize that we are not so different after all.

Spike Lee

I just wanted to share a quick quote that ties nicely into our discussion of insider vs. outsider made by the infamous Spike Lee (who I am a little TOO fascinated and obsessed with! haha)

"I'd like to state that Spike Lee is not saying that African American culture is just for black people alone to enjoy and cherish. Culture is for everybody." -Spike Lee

I just thought this was a really intriguing and important statement that just re-emphasizes the fact that regardless of whether culturally diverse pieces of literature are written by an insider or an outsider, they can still be appreciated by all in one way or another. :)

Debate

After tonights class, I think I have gained a very well-rounded sense of what the insider vs. outsider debate is all about. Though I highly dislike debates as they make me very anxious and uncomfortable, I think tonight's debate was extremely beneficial in that it allowed us to really examine the issue at hand from each diverse perspective. I also think it was very clever for Deb to assign us which side we would be arguing for and against so as to put our own personal feelings aside and really find supporting evidence for our position. At the end of it all, I now understand why this socio-political debate has continued for so many years. There truly is no right or wrong answer and I think that we, as teachers, will have to do our best to make an educated and informed decision when choosing what texts we place inside our classrooms. I believe that tonight's debate will surely assist us in doing so.

ANXIETY

After reading through the provided samples of "Questioning the Text" papers, I am feeling extremely nervous and anxious about my own paper that I had prepared for last weeks class. I put so much time, thought, and effort into it and am now afraid that it does not even come close to meeting the assignments requirements. I have no idea why I am venting my worries on this blog but sometimes they get so overwhelming that I feel like I just have to put them out there! I am hoping that everyone has taken the opportunity to read the examples Deb has posted because it will absolutely be of assistance to you when putting together your paper. Happy Writing!

So many thoughts, so little time

In class last night we briefly discussed the ongoing debate regarding insider and outsider. It was suggested that if someone of a specific race makes a stereotypical comment about themselves it is more acceptable because they are an "insider". On the contrary, if an individual outside of that race made a similar comment, they would most likely be looked at negatively as a stereotyper. I have specifically studied this debate in prior English classes that I have taken and still remain on the fence. In one sense, I think that the discrepancy that exists between comments that an insider is "allowed" to make vs. that of an outsider is perfectly acceptable. For example, several rap and urban hip hop artists of African descent tend to use the N word repeatedly in the lyrics of their music. However, Caucasian artists such as Eminem have been criticized when engaging in the same technique. While some may see this inconsistency as being unfair and illogical, I would have to argue quite the opposite. African Americans have a shared history; one emblematic of extreme pain and suffering. It is BECAUSE of this shared past, cultural history, and identity that enables individuals of this race to engage in the use of this word. Historically, within the black community, this term was used in exchange for the word "friend" or "buddy". As depicted in many novels such as The Piano Lesson by August Wilson, this term was utilized between the black community as one of endearment. Individuals of other races, however, have drastically altered this meaning and associated horrific connotations and stereotypes with this specific word. Because we, as non-African Americans, could never truly understand the meaning of this word and have assigned such horrific, painful, and emotional undertones to it, we are not titled to the usage of it in any way, shape or form. We are the outsiders.

To play devils advocate and argue in opposition of what I have just said, the usage of such a word, even within the black community, most importantly within the media, could absolutely been seen as further perpetuating stereotypes and desensitizing future generations of the cruel and unusual connotations coinciding with its usage. This is why many African Americans, though insiders themselves, are in strong opposition to the usage of the word even within the constraints of their own race.

I think the subject of insider vs. outsider is extremely tricky and does not offer a cut and dry solution as to when it is acceptable to make stereotypical comments (perhaps for comedic effect) and who it is acceptable for. It truly could be looked at from both angles, establishing positives and negatives for each argument. I hope to discuss topic in more depth in future classes and gain more insight into this critical debate.

Ballerina Dreams

First and foremost I would like to say how I excited I am to be able to participate in this blog. At first I was absolutely dreading this task and viewed it as tedious and extremely repetitive of similar assignments in other classes. However, I was quickly able to identify the critical piece of information that made this blog unlike any other: we are able to write freely about any topics with regards to literature that are of interest! It is SO refreshing to be able to just sit down and write my thoughts, feelings, and emotions rather than being assigned a specific topic founded upon numerous rules and regulations.

Secondly, when thinking about class Wednesday night I cannot help but be drawn to a specific book that a group was assigned to evaluate: Ballerina Dreams. Immediately upon catching glimpse of the cover I was filled with overwhelming feelings of joy and hope. Since I was in fifth grade, I knew that I wanted to become a special education teacher. At this age I began working at a camp for children with special needs that my mother created. Since that summer, I knew what career path God had set out for me. Nearly ten years later, upon my acceptance to the college of education, my mother, a former special education teacher herself, gave me the book Ballerina Dreams. Inside the front cover she had written: "One hundred years from now, it will not matter how much money I had in my bank account, how large my house was, or what kind of car I drove. But the world may be a little better, because I was important in the life of a child. " There has never been a gift that has been more precious to me and held so close to my heart. That book, in essence, represents every goal and aspiration that I have set for myself since the age of ten. The personal feelings and emotions that that story elicits in me are priceless. To me, that is what defines an excellent piece of literature. One that not only tells a tale, but tells the story of your own destiny.



(I am dedicating this post to my mom for inspiring me to be who I am today :) I love her dearly and will always appreciate the passion for students with disabilities that she has instilled in me)