Navigating Identity: An African Immigrant’s Perspective on Race in America
When I first migrated to America, I never considered myself black. Coming from Nigeria, my identity was largely defined by ethnicity, religion, social class, and gender, rather than the color of my skin. In Nigeria, being called black wasn’t a part of the conversation; I could travel freely without the concern of being judged or denied opportunities based on my skin color. However, upon arriving in America, I quickly realized that my race and ethnicity as an African immigrant would shape the spaces I occupied in society.
The Shock of Racial Discourse
In Nigeria, the social construct is not centered on race. It’s a confusion of cultural and historical identities that overshadow the simplistic categorization one might find in America. As a newcomer, I was thrust into a world with a unique set of unwritten rules, where racial nuance plays a critical role in daily interactions. Unfortunately, as a black immigrant, there was no one to pull me aside and explain the intricacies of the American racial hierarchy. The pursuit of the “American Dream” often comes with hidden challenges that many immigrants, including African immigrants, struggle to understand.
Colonial Brainwashing
Some may wonder why African immigrants were unaware of the concept of racial superiority. Historically, the continent of Africa was colonized by European powers, leading to a form of mental subjugation that continues to influence our societal norms. Independence did not signify the end of exploitation; rather, it shifted towards a more insidious form of control through education and the propagation of Western ideals. Cagri Tugrul Mart highlights that the colonizers aimed to expose Africans to what they deemed “superior culture,” leading to a legacy of altered values and cultural frameworks.
This colonial education indoctrinated many of us into a worldview shaped by European perspectives. Before migrating, I was aware of cultural representations of black Americans through shows like Soul Train and The Jeffersons, yet I had little understanding of the systemic racism that people of color faced in this so-called land of opportunity.
My Immigrant Experience in America
With dreams of pursuing education and achieving the American Dream, my initial optimism quickly met a harsh reality. The stereotypical portrayal of Africa in Western media often led to bewildering conversations. Many Americans generalized Africa as a monolith, failing to recognize its diversity—54 countries, over 1.3 billion people, and more than 2,000 languages. The ignorance could be staggering. Questions ranged from “Do you speak Africa?” to “Did you play with wild animals growing up?”
Unfortunately, these inquiries often came with an underlying assumption of inadequacy. My accent was sometimes viewed as a barrier rather than a reflection of my international background. The ignorance I faced also compounded the racism directed at me—the conflicting identities of being both black and an immigrant seemed to confuse some individuals. I was often told I was “not black enough” because I lacked a direct connection to America’s historical legacy of slavery.
My Experience as a Black Woman in America
Being a black woman in America comes with its own set of challenges. The color of my skin is a constant reminder of the prejudices that exist. I’ve been followed in stores, mistaken for a nanny, and passed over for promotions despite being qualified. Even simple interactions can result in discomfort—like a co-worker hesitating to share a pen. When I reported such behavior, I was labeled a troublemaker, further compounding my frustration.
As a mother, my concerns extend to my children. I find myself worrying about their safety, particularly around law enforcement. The reality of racial profiling means I must prepare them for experiences I hope they will never face. How do you navigate a society that is so intertwined with racial dynamics, especially when trying to shield your children from its biases?
Historical Black Experience
As an immigrant, my experience is inherently shaped by my culture and customs; however, understanding the broader experiences of black Americans is crucial. African Americans have a historical narrative shaped by centuries of slavery, segregation, and institutionalized racism, from Jim Crow laws to ongoing police brutality. Despite legal advancements during the Civil Rights Movement, the specter of racial inequality remains ever-present.
The race for survival in America is a different race for every individual. A white male starts on a cushioned track—privileged by the very color of his skin—while a black man must navigate his race barefoot, often battered by socio-economic adversities. This fundamental imbalance is a harsh reality for many.
The Womb of Mother Africa
The narrative of Africans in the diaspora is akin to a mother separated from her children, each scattered across the world yet sharing a deep bond. The history did not begin with slavery but stretches back to the cradle of human civilization. Despite our different historical experiences, we share common struggles against systemic racism.
Racism does not respect borders; the challenges faced by African Americans also impact African immigrants. We share similar stories of inadequate healthcare, education, and discrimination, revealing that despite our varying backgrounds, we encounter the same societal injustices.
Rather than allowing divisive narratives to taint our solidarity, we must embrace our histories and differences while recognizing our shared identities. By coming together, we can challenge the oppressive systems that seek to keep us divided and fueled by ignorance.
