Irish-German | Peruvian – NHS Charity Senior Events Manager
I am a half Irish-German and half Peruvian Catholic. My Father is from Ireland. Born to an Irish Father and German Mother, he grew up speaking German at home in Dublin. My Mother was born and raised in Lima to an Afro-Peruvian Father and Peruvian Mother. My parents first met at Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany through mutual friends but they both lived in London at the time. My Mother claims not to remember that meeting but my Dad remembers every detail! That was over 40 years ago, they've been married almost as many. Because of these family connections and my Father’s job, I’ve had the chance to live, study and work in Germany, the United States, Ireland and the UK.
I grew up speaking Spanish at home and my German is ok too, and we would always visit or have family visit from both sides. Our families have always gotten on well, my Grandparents couldn't speak to each other but were always affectionate towards each other and my sisters and I would act as simultaneous translators when they met so they could converse. One of my favourite parts of my wedding was when my Peruvian family came to Ireland again and saw my Irish family again. It was very emotional as quite a few years had passed and there were plenty of laughs, love and drinks.
Within my own family both sides seem to share similar values, with a focus on family, decency, kindness as well as being quite open and liberal. My parents have always loved to travel and learn, and have been everywhere together. They helped us to see that every country or people had something really special to offer that made them unique and interesting. When I was younger, it felt over the top to explain I wasn’t from just one place. When people met our Blonde haired, blue-eyed Father, my sisters and I would often be asked if he was our real Father or if we were adopted! People’s rudeness upon hearing my Mother’s accent, assuming she couldn’t speak English properly, would also really upset us. I struggled with feeling not Latina enough, not Irish enough, not enough. I used to wish I was from one place. I have always felt like the foreigner, except for in London where I am just another person in a diverse city.
In light of the global protests and outrage following George Floyd’s murder and countless others who should be named, I have felt emotional at times. I have also felt proud of the united reaction from people from all creeds, religions, countries, sexual orientation and race. However, I have gotten upset with some of the reactions from people I know or care about who don't seem to understand the Black Lives Matter movement or somehow think they are trying to erase history. I have had similar emotions and discussions around Brexit and the perception of migrants or refugees, often having to remind them I am an immigrant too! I try to pick my battles and build understanding where I can, and I also continue to read and try to educate myself too.
Recently, my British husband asked me if I knew of any close friends that had babies in the last few years that are of one nationality or race. As we thought about it, we could only name one or two. I think that is wonderful and gives me hope there is a new generation of people similar to me. But also more people who will grow up to be tolerant, inclusive, open, and hopefully proud of all they represent.