Introducing 

Prezi AI.

Your new presentation assistant.

Refine, enhance, and tailor your content, source relevant images, and edit visuals quicker than ever before.

Loading…
Transcript

Are we all 'mixed' up?

An exploration of identity formation among 'multiracial' individuals living in Canada

My Research Topic

Where to next?

  • explore how individuals of more than one “racial” heritage (aka. “multiracial” or “mixed race”) negotiate and come to understand their ‘multiracial’ identity
  • how the concept of “multiracial” identity has been explored in the available literature
  • contain to the Canadian context
  • continue to explore Canadian context
  • further investigation into the role of the census
  • how is multicultural policy incorporated into the discussion?

"Passing" and "Authenticity"

  • 'multiracial' people "hard to place"
  • "passing" for white is an attempt to claim a "false" identity
  • 'mixed' individuals who can "pass" are accused of self-hatred, inauthenticity, and betraying their community
  • pass as white in order to "privilege" yourself
  • "passing" not always intentional

My research questions

• How has the topic of identity construction for 'multiracial' Canadians been explored in the existing literature?

  • When and why do individuals of more than one racial heritage choose/choose not to identify as ‘multiracial’?
  • What kind of labels do 'multiracial' Canadians use to identify themselves?

Census Politics

  • how does the census operate as a site through which 'multiracial' people can declare their identity?
  • prior to 1981, only one ethnic group was counted
  • 1986: "Mark or specify as many as applicable"
  • how have things changed in the 21st century?
  • strategic responses

Preliminary Findings

Terminology and Labels

  • ongoing debate
  • broad terms 'mixed race' and 'multiracial' are the most common
  • using the word "race" problematic; reify race or acknowledge its powerful position?
  • broad terms can lead to incorrect generalizations
  • some starting to create new terms:
  • 'Blackanese', 'Chicanese', 'Korgentinian', 'Blaxican', 'Juskimo'
Learn more about creating dynamic, engaging presentations with Prezi