Across the African diaspora, traditional customs and practices have been passed down and adapted to modern times. For example, in my own Kenyan-American household, there are certain dishes we would have made from scratch. Nowadays, however, we buy many of our ingredients pre-made for convenience. I interviewed a couple of students here on campus to examine what they have retained from their heritage, and how they have modernized it.
What are some traditions from your culture that have been passed down and have been adapted to modern times?
Drusilla Apola (freshman, speech-pathology) is from Kenya. She moved to the U.S. with her parents and younger sister in 2007 when she was four years old.
Ms. Apola says, “A big part of my culture is the aspect of respect, specifically for our elders. I was taught to be obedient, not talk back, and acknowledge my place as a child by adhering to the wisdom of my parents and their past experiences. When we moved, however, I noticed that the dynamic between elders and the youth was different here.”
She goes on to explain that while respect is still of the utmost importance, she feels as though there is more room nowadays for discussion and for her voice to be heard--especially as it pertains to topics that are important to her.
Jennifer Jean (freshman, biology) discussed the topic of praying and what that looks like in her Haitian household.
Ms. Jean explains, “I was always taught the importance of praying. We pray before and after everything. One thing about praying, however, is that I was taught that it had to be done in seclusion. Praying was always a big ordeal and done in private between family/church members or alone. I have adapted that, however, and now I pray casually as well as formally.”
She talks about how the traditionally acceptable way of praying is not the only way to pray. She points out that, to her, praying is simply having a conversation with God and she should be able to do that anywhere and at any time.
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