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'