Mestiza Consciousness with Gloria Anzaldua
- unomostate
- Oct 17, 2015
- 2 min read
On Friday, October 9th we discussed Gloria Anzaldua’s concept of mestiza consciousness. There were 3 main passages, as well as smaller sections, that we analyzed and discussed using our two guiding questions: (1) What is the author/text saying? (2) How is the author/text saying this?
These questions lead us into the topic of ambiguity. We defined ambiguity as being something that isn’t concrete. It allows up to have an open mind about identity, in terms of ourselves and how we identify others. The process of identity formation can unify us with other individuals that are also going through this because “we can figure it out together.” It’s a beautiful process because it makes us feel complete and free through this unification. “We find what makes us us and what makes us happy” through this development.
We are constantly living in two different worlds. There is one side that is pulling us, drawing us to come closer, while the other is doing the same. We have expectations on both sides. It’s a painful process. It’s the “dilemma of the mixed breed.” But, being a mixed breed shouldn’t be seen as a dilemma because we are bicultural. “We should embrace and see it as a strong suit because we come from different cultures,” which offers a different, unique perspective. We have advantages over the other because of our experiences and because of this, we should feel proud and see ourselves as valuable. Just because we have become “victims to colonization,” doesn’t mean that we have to continue to place ourselves in that victim position, instead we must rise up and own our place.
Anzaldua offers an alternative in developing our identity. The new mestiza is one who “has a plural personality and who operates in a pluralistic mode.” It’s an identity that doesn’t “drop” anything; instead it invites individuals to create a collective identity, a “synthesis.”
May you find comfort and release in ambiguity. Nothing must be concrete. Let uncertainty seep into your steps, allow yourself to step into the unknown in order to be known. May you find people within this community that feel tu dolor y tu gozo. May you find a freedom in letting yourself be created over and over again, and when you find yourself in these moments, say to yourself “I’m free.”
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