'It remains evident every day that the same systems that oppress us for our differences refuse to allow space for us to validate our identities and gain visibility for our struggles.' -suliemanreemh diversityinhealthcare MedTwitter
"Do your family members own a lot of gas stations?" my 8th grade substitute teacher bluntly asked me after glancing at my name on the roster. Stunned, I attempted a defense of my family's occupations, but I failed to find the words. All that I could muster was"not my parents" through quivering lips, avoiding her gaze. Cocking her head and squinting her eyes in disbelief, she shooed away the possibility that I could be Arab and somehow not directly linked to a 7-Eleven.
I have long since learned to be proud of my identity — in fact, I am one to argue that our labels hold much weight and should be cherished rather than ignored. Our identities oftentimes dictate our upbringings, values, and even our day-to-day choices.
I have since come to the realization that seeking validation of our worth from those who oppress us in order to have a space is a loveless cause. Rather, to have space where you are deemed unfit, you must create it unapologetically. I recognize now that it was not 8th-grade me's responsibility to justify the careers of my family members under the pressure of bigotry or the urge to assimilate for approval.
So, to the"misfits" like those of us Arabs who fall between the cracks of systems, institutions, and boxes that were created only to include us when beneficial to the status quo, I encourage you to carve out space. Chisel the check mark into the"other" box in the race category or your multiple family names onto an advanced degree.
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