I often clarify where I am from, even in my home country Nepal. I know one’s ancestral place tells much about that person, such as socioeconomic background, culture, and upbringing. But I was born and raised in Kathmandu and come from a rural part (so rural that my village got electricity a few years back and road access a year or two back) of the country. So describing where I am from challenges the assumptions of my background.
A few months back, a British royal aide was in the soup for asking a guest where “she really came from.” Simple curiosity or a racist statement?
Asking someone where they are from is a common conversation starter. However, in recent times, this question has sparked controversy and is now being viewed as a racial statement. This is because of the assumptions and stereotypes associated with the question and how it can make individuals feel like they are not fully accepted in their respective countries.
Assumptions and Stereotypes
It is often assumed that they come from a different country when asked where they are from. This assumption can be based on a person’s name, accent, or physical appearance. This question can also be accompanied by stereotypes associated with a person’s race or ethnicity. For example, if someone is asked where they are from, and they respond with a country that is not typically associated with their race or ethnicity, they may be met with confusion or disbelief.
Feeling Like an Outsider
Asking where someone is from can also make individuals feel they must be fully accepted in their respective countries. For example, if someone is born and raised in a particular country but is constantly asked where they are from, it can create a sense of otherness and make them feel like they do not belong. Furthermore, this question can also be seen as questioning a person’s loyalty or patriotism to their country, which can be hurtful and offensive.
Questioning Assumptions and Embracing Diversity
Asking where someone is from can be viewed as a racial statement because of the assumptions and stereotypes associated with the question and how it can make individuals feel like they are not fully accepted in their respective countries. Instead of asking where someone is from, we should focus on embracing diversity and questioning our own assumptions and stereotypes. Doing so can create a more inclusive society where everyone feels accepted and valued for who they are.
Certainly, assumptions and stereotypes are often based on preconceived notions that people have about certain groups of people. These preconceptions can be based on a variety of factors, such as a person’s race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality, religion, or nationality.
These biases can be particularly harmful because they lead to discrimination and inequality. For example, if someone assumes that all people from a certain country or ethnic group are lazy, they may be less likely to hire or provide them with opportunities. This can lead to economic disadvantage and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
Furthermore, assumptions and stereotypes can also be harmful because they can contribute to a culture of exclusion and otherness. When people are constantly asked where they are from or treated as if they don’t belong, it can create a sense of alienation and marginalization. This can be particularly damaging for people already members of marginalized groups, such as immigrants or people of colour.
Therefore, it is important to recognize and challenge our own biases and work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society. This means questioning our assumptions and stereotypes and being open to learning about and embracing diversity. Doing so can create a society where everyone feels accepted and valued for who they are, regardless of their background or identity.
Thinking Out Loud 