Anglo-Indian | Anglo-Burmese
What I know about my ethnicity is only what I have found out through word of mouth. My Dad is Anglo-Indian, (mixed Indian, usually with British/European descent). My Grandfather was English, Irish and Dutch and my Grandmother was Goan from Portuguese descent. My Mum is Anglo-Burmese. Her mother, My Grandmother is English, Irish and Indian, and my Grandfather was English and Burmese (think there is a bit of Scottish in there too!)
My Mum and Dad both moved to England when they were young and had me and my two sisters. I have been fortunate enough to grow up in such a diverse family, within multiple cultures. I am grateful to have experienced some of the best parts of each culture, especially the food!
I would say I identify most with my Anglo-Indian roots. My family and I are part of a tight knit South London community which usually consists of annual functions and events revolving around faith, food, alcohol, rock n roll music and line dancing - (Anglo Indian culture was heavily influenced by western country music.
Growing up, there was a brief period where I tried to disassociate myself from this culture. We were often teased by Aunties & Uncles for being ‘English babies’ and for not choosing to eat spicy food and having McDonald’s instead. Saying things like you must ‘marry a nice Anglo boy’ which just made me want to rebel more. As I grew up, I started to realise that being Anglo-Indian is actually the strongest part of my identity and I love that, truly proud to be who I am today.
Sometimes I do still have difficulties navigating through my identity and culture especially when it comes to body image and sexuality. Growing up in a culture heavily centred around faith, it wasn’t easy being a Queer Asian woman, but the more I have learnt to embrace this, the more empowered I have become and the more I connect with people like me who are also seeking to find themselves.
Being part of these different communities helps me feel connected to not only myself, but other people around me and most importantly my family, my grandparents and my ancestors. I will continue carrying on their traditions and legacy and pass them down to future generations as best as I can.
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