Write a short explanation of how one of the individuals in "borders" by thomas king is affected by border crossing. Use example or details to support your answer.
In "Borders" by Thomas King, the protagonist's mother is profoundly impacted by the act of border crossing. As a member of the Blackfoot tribe, the mother strongly identifies with her cultural heritage, causing her to staunchly adhere to her Indigenous roots. When she is required to declare her nationality at the border, she faces an internal struggle, torn between her loyalty to her heritage and the practicality of identifying as one nationality. This conflict is exemplified when she consistently claims to be Blackfoot, despite the fact that her tribal affiliation is not recognized as a separate nationality.
The mother's determination to assert her identity becomes evident through her refusal to say the word "Canadian" whenever asked about her nationality. Instead, she insists on saying "Blackfoot." Even when pressured by the border guards to state her place of birth, she cleverly responds, "The border crossed me," subtly emphasizing her affiliation with her tribe rather than a foreign nation.
Through her insistence on identifying as Blackfoot, the mother demonstrates the resilience and defiance of Indigenous peoples in the face of colonization. By refusing to conform to the imposed borders and nationalities, she challenges the notion that one's identity can be contained within arbitrary lines on a map. Her steadfast refusal to comply with the border's demands showcases her deep connection to her Indigenous heritage and her desire to preserve it, even in the face of adversity.
Overall, the mother's experience of border crossing in "Borders" highlights the profound impact it has on her sense of identity and allegiance. By rejecting traditional notions of nationality, she actively resists the erasure of Indigenous cultures and asserts her right to define herself on her own terms.