fbpx

The latest entry in our series of college essays from Row New York seniors features Emma Buford’s comments on her biracial heritage and the special identity it has helped her forge.

*****************************

“I am a black and white cookie.”

My grandparents gave my parents a warning when they found out my mother and father were getting married. They stated that they could get married, but should consider not having children because their children would be confused their entire lives. They would be unsure about their identity. I am proud to say that I am very secure and aware of my identity. My parents obviously did not honor the warning given to them by my grandparents. They ended up having two children, who were both African-American and Irish.

I celebrate Kwanzaa with my father’s side of the family and St. Patrick’s Day with my mother’s. If I were only one race, I believe that I would have been lacking in self-awareness and security. Because of my mixture, I am cognizant and respectful of all different ways of life. I am proud of who I am and would never take my uniqueness for granted.

In 2009, my father passed away on Thanksgiving Day. This event was devastating. I was scared that I would suffer a type of identity crisis. I had lost a huge side of me and was determined to not let my African-American roots escape me. This has encouraged me to form a stronger connection with my black heritage. Similarly, my mother’s connection to Ireland has triggered my eagerness to travel and eventually get my Irish passport.

I have heard that knowing where you come from can help you understand where you will go in the future. If this is truly the case, then I am prepared for my future. I know what I am capable of and feel a driving force beneath me, propelling me to move forward with strength, and perseverance, while embodying all of the brave people that came through adversity to combine to make me who I am.

 

 

Related Posts