WHO ARE YOU
JAn. 17 – MAR. 13, 2016
CINTIA SEGOVIA
Image Credit: Cintia Segovia (Mexico, b. 1984) De Chile, Mole y Dulce, 2015. Photograph, dimensions variable. Courtesy of the Artist
What is an “identity”, and what advice can you give someone who is discovering their identity?
[An identity] is a social construct formed by habits and activities shared with other people. I would advise to try and meet people to find out what they are about, ask many questions about them, where they come from, and how the place they grew up in was. That way I have realized that a person’s identity is more complex than what it appears, and by what I learn from others, I have become more relaxed and accepting of the changes in my own identity.
When has your identity been compromised, and what advice can you give someone whose identity is being challenged?
People that I meet for the first time are surprised when I tell them that I’m Mexican. Many often say “but you don’t look Mexican.” This has made me question my identity as a Mexican and become more conscious about the perception of others about my national identity.
What actions and/or tools do you use to remind yourself about the value of your unique identity? How can someone be proud of who they are?
I reflect about what makes me being me by listening to the stories of others and what made them who they are today, and I’m looking forward to experience more and see how that changes my identity.