Mixed-Race Identity Exploration

People who are mixed-race or multiracial often experience unique challenges and successes. Having parents or ancestors from different racial or cultural backgrounds gives them a rich mix of traditions, languages, and perspectives, which can help them understand the world in a more interesting way. But sometimes, they might feel like they don’t fully belong to any one of their racial or cultural groups, which can be hard. Other mixed race folks may feel pressured to identify as only one part of their racial heritage, and this pressure may come from family, friends, or society as a whole.

Mixed-race folks may also practice something called “code-switching.” This means they might change how they act, speak, or identify depending on where they are or who they’re with. Sometimes, others may ask them questions like, “What are you?” or “Where are you from?” Even though these questions might seem innocent, they can make a person feel like they don’t really fit in or belong. Additionally, a person’s family can shape how they see their mixed heritage, especially if their parents or relatives come from different racial or cultural backgrounds and have different beliefs or values. 

At Sahana Wellness, we can provide a supportive environment to unpack your personal experiences as a mixed-race individual and to challenge social categorization practices that may have excluded or marginalized you based on your mixed heritage.