Identity is a contested term but what does it mean to be Somali these days in the Western World? This is an issue I have grappled with and I think most young Somalis in the West face similar identity issues on a daily occurrence that affect our daily thoughts and actions!

Many of us live in multicultural societies represented by a diverse and mosaic set of identities but it’s difficult to create 'our' own distinct identity amongst already established cultures. Many of you will agree this failure to create a single Somali identity has induced a lot of problems for our young people who are surrounded by more influential cultures around whether it be it ‘hip-hop’ ‘Islamic’ ‘African’ ‘Arab’ or even ‘western’ identities, even though Somali culture is influenced by these cultures!

This has led to many self-hating people in our community. In fact, there are more self-hating Somalis than in most other communities. These people are quick to deny their sense of self and often have an inferiority complex. This has had a disastrous consequence for the already strained Somali identity. Gone are the days when a big forehead and being skinny or wearing a penguin style hijab and having a limited grasp of English were key features that identified a Somalis from amongst the crowd.

Many of those who self-hating are discovering new ways to turn their backs on being Somali! And are instead banking on new lifestyles that are detrimental to our very existence. This brain flight has been caused by our own apathy and indifference.

Please dispel the misconceptions on Somali culture and do you best to rescue any self-hating Somali in our midst from losing their rightful and deserved place in the world.

What can you do to help?

Mentor young people
Celebrate Somali cultural heritage
Promote and foster an appreciation of Somali History
Explain the complex issues affecting Somalis

Thanks! your efforts are appreciated!