Double Identity

Double Identity

 

Living in both Manhattan and the Bronx has resulted in what I call my “Double Identity.” As an Afro-Latina coming from a high-poverty, low-opportunity, neighborhood in the Bronx, I never forget where I come from. I own who I am with whatever stigma comes of it. All of my life I’ve felt sheltered within my community. Protecting me like a precious rare ornament, surprised by that despite living where I lived and going through what I’ve gone through, that I still have hope, positivity, and ambition to move up in life, despite the setbacks and limited opportunities. People would tell me, “You don’t deserve to live here. Get out while you can and never look back.” Strangely, I don’t feel that way. If anything, I want to leave, get my education and come back to redefine the narrative of the Bronx as a future Congresswoman, I don’t know (who knows?) because there is such a rich culture being suppressed by factors like gentrification. I hope my listener will learn to appreciate my community the way I appreciate it and rather, truly develop a more positive concept of the South Bronx.

Read a transcript of “Double Identity” (PDF)

 
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