As the world becomes increasingly diverse, the issue of identity has become more complex. People are no longer limited to a single identity, but rather have multiple facets to their personalities, backgrounds, and experiences. However, this diversity can also lead to misunderstandings, stereotypes, and prejudices, particularly when it comes to issues of race and ethnicity. In this article, we will explore the insights into navigating identity and racism from two young adult novels, "Blended" by Sharon M. Draper and "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas.
"Blended" tells the story of eleven-year-old Isabella, who is caught between two worlds as the daughter of divorced parents who come from different racial and cultural backgrounds. She has to navigate the challenges of fitting in with both sides of her family and dealing with racism and microaggressions at school. Isabella's story highlights the complexities of identity and the difficulties that people face when trying to reconcile different aspects of their heritage.
In contrast, "The Hate U Give" tells the story of sixteen-year-old Starr, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a white police officer. The novel explores issues of systemic racism, police brutality, and the struggle for social justice. Starr's story highlights the importance of speaking up and standing up for what is right, even in the face of opposition and adversity.
Despite the differences in their stories, both novels share common themes related to identity and racism. The following insights can be gleaned from the books:
Identity is complex and multifaceted
Both "Blended" and "The Hate U Give" emphasize that identity is not a simple matter of race or ethnicity. People have multiple identities that are shaped by their family, culture, religion, language, and personal experiences. Isabella struggles with feeling like she doesn't belong in either of her parents' worlds, while Starr feels the pressure to be a different person at home and at school. These struggles highlight the importance of acknowledging and embracing the multiple facets of identity that make each person unique.
Racism is pervasive and damaging
Both novels also highlight the damaging effects of racism, whether it is overt or subtle. Isabella faces racism and microaggressions from her classmates and teachers at school, while Starr witnesses the systemic racism and police brutality that led to the death of her friend. The novels show that racism can cause emotional pain, trauma, and even death, and that it is a pervasive problem that affects people of all ages and backgrounds.
Speaking up can make a difference
Finally, both novels emphasize the importance of speaking up and using one's voice to advocate for change. Isabella learns to speak up for herself and confront her bullies, while Starr becomes an activist and voice for justice in her community. These stories show that even one person can make a difference by standing up for what is right and challenging the status quo.
In conclusion, "Blended" and "The Hate U Give" offer powerful insights into the complexities of identity and the damaging effects of racism. They show that identity is not a simple matter of race or ethnicity, but rather a multifaceted combination of personal experiences and cultural heritage. They also highlight the importance of speaking up and using one's voice to advocate for change. As we navigate our own identities and confront issues of racism, we can draw inspiration from these powerful stories and strive to create a more just and inclusive world.