SomaliNet Forums

On Flight 13.

greenday wrote:

Alphanumeric wrote:I think it bothers her that people assume she's a 2nd generation immigrant.

Why would that bother her

For her? I can't say. But I think someone would view it as an attack on what little culture they've tried to hold onto, by suggesting you've completely assimilated with the domestic culture.

But... but... she is a hipster.

quartier cinq behind masajidka samaroon

greenday wrote:

Alphanumeric wrote:I think it bothers her that people assume she's a 2nd generation immigrant.

Why would that bother her

I'm going to speak in really abstract terms, so bear with me:

Typically when other Somalis assume that I'm a second generation immigrant, they're attempting to remove me from my Somali-ness. It's usually said in the context of, "But you're an upper-middle class, suburban American, what connection do you have to Somalia?"

I was born there. I speak, read, and write in the language sufficiently well. I'm more knowledgeable in Somali history and modern socio-political discourse than they erroneously assume. I can go on and on.

In addition, and what's also more problematic, is that they're attempting to impose a false identity on me by presumptuously inferring that I'm an American by birthright, when in actuality, I didn't become a citizen until very, very recently.

Shirib wrote:Isbitaal Banaadir

+1

blitzkrieg wrote:It shocks people, honestly. Like, most Somalis just assume that I'm at least a second generation immigrant. It kind of bothers me.

it must be your dress sense and opinions.

Blitz, if you dont look/act like someone who has distanced themselves from their "somaliness" why would they assume you're Americanized

greenday wrote:Blitz, if you dont look/act like someone who has distanced themselves from their "somaliness" why would they assume you're Americanized

What do looks and actions have to do with being Somali (culturally)?

I can't tell if I should even bother to deconstruct both of your comments.

Look at these guys. Dress sense? Really?

SMH

Alphanumeric wrote:

greenday wrote:Blitz, if you dont look/act like someone who has distanced themselves from their "somaliness" why would they assume you're Americanized

What do looks and actions have to do with being Somali (culturally)?

Say she drinks openly, lives with her partner, goes eew at the sight of dirac

greenday wrote:

Alphanumeric wrote:

greenday wrote:Blitz, if you dont look/act like someone who has distanced themselves from their "somaliness" why would they assume you're Americanized

What do looks and actions have to do with being Somali (culturally)?

Say she drinks openly, lives with her partner, goes eew at the sight of dirac

Yeah, cause Somalis don't drink and screw around? Preference not to wear a piece of clothing shouldn't imply hatred for a culture.

How do you deal with this?

in a mud hut somewhere in baadiya