Northern Irish | Algerian
My Mum is from Northern Ireland and my Dad is from Algeria. My Mum went to work in the Alpes in France when she left school. My Dad left Algeria when he was in his early 20’s, and had been living and working there when they met. I was then born in Northern Ireland but moved back to France when I was a few months old and lived there for 7 years. French was my first language so when we moved back to Belfast, I had to learn how to speak English.
I always struggled with my name, as it was always something kids made fun of. This was difficult as I knew I was different and didn’t want to be. I have had people not believe that my name is my real name and that I’ve given myself a hippy, spiritual name, as I’ve travelled a lot. They see that I am White and don’t believe me. I’ve also had to try convincing other Algerians that I’m half, as they don’t believe me either!
Growing up in Northern Ireland meant that religion was very important. My Dad was a Muslim and my Mum a Protestant, but I didn’t personally feel any strong religious pull. When kids used to ask me ‘what are you?’ (as in a Catholic or Protestant) I used to say I didn't know, which again wasn’t the right thing to say as everyone else seemed to have a strong identity. My Dad experienced a lot of racism living in Ireland and was once hospitalised by a racist attack, and my brother has experienced discrimination for being a Muslim. These were tough times however, luckily, I have a multicultural family who are very open minded and supportive.
I didn’t know much about the Algerian culture. I had visited when I was 10 years old and felt annoyed and confused that women had to stay at home while the men went out, and that women had to cover up so much more than men did. I left Algeria not really wanting to go back again. However, I returned 3 years ago with my brother and felt more connected to my family there, and had a deeper understanding of the land, culture and religion.
I’m personally fascinated by people’s heritage. I love that everyone has their own story and feel sharing stories breaks down barriers and promotes respect.”
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