“Sure You Can Ask Me a Personal Question” by Diane Burns.
In your English journal, respond to the following questions in at least one complete paragraph. Make sure to answer all questions:
What does the word “identity” mean? What are some of the ways in which people identify themselves?
Some identities can be seen by others and other identities are only known to others if the individual choose to share it. What are some of the identities you can usually “see”? What are some of the identities that you might not be able to see?
Title this entry “Personal Question.”
The word "identity" refers to the qualities, characteristics, or traits that make a person who they are. It encompasses the individual's sense of self and includes various aspects such as their beliefs, values, culture, and experiences. People identify themselves in different ways depending on their personal preferences and circumstances. Some common ways in which individuals identify themselves include their gender, sexual orientation, race, nationality, religion, profession, and political affiliations. These are typically identities that can be seen or inferred through visual cues or verbal expression. However, there are also identities that might not be readily visible to others. For example, a person's mental health status, personal struggles, past traumas, and even certain aspects of their personality or interests may not be immediately apparent. These aspects of identity can only be known if the individual chooses to share them. Overall, identities are a complex and multi-faceted part of who we are as individuals.
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Personal Question
The word "identity" refers to the qualities, characteristics, or traits that make a person who they are. It encompasses the individual's sense of self and includes various aspects such as their beliefs, values, culture, and experiences. People identify themselves in different ways depending on their personal preferences and circumstances.
Some identities can be easily observed by others. These are often visible through physical characteristics like gender, race, and appearance. For example, one can make assumptions about someone's gender based on their physical appearance, voice, or clothing choices.
Other visible identities include nationality, religion, and profession. These can be inferred from someone's accent, religious attire, or occupation. For example, someone wearing a hijab or speaking with a French accent can provide insights into their religious or national identity. Similarly, someone wearing a doctor's coat or carrying an artist's equipment may indicate their profession.
However, there are identities that may not be immediately visible to others. Mental health status is an example of an invisible identity. It is not something that can be determined solely by looking at a person. Additionally, personal struggles, past traumas, and certain aspects of one's personality or interests are not readily apparent to others. These identities can only be known if the individual chooses to share them.
In conclusion, identities can be both visible and invisible. Some can be easily observed, such as gender, race, and nationality, while others require more openness and sharing, like mental health and personal struggles. It is important to recognize and respect the complexity of identities and not make assumptions based solely on what is visible.
What are some of the identities you can usually “see”? What are some of the identities that you might not be able to see?
Some of the identities that you can usually "see" include gender, race, age, and physical appearance. These are often observable through visual cues and characteristics. For example, a person's physical features, such as facial structure or skin color, can provide information about their racial background. Similarly, a person's clothing choices and mannerisms can provide clues about their gender identity.
On the other hand, there are identities that may not be immediately visible. These can include sexual orientation, religious beliefs, mental health status, and personal struggles. These identities are not overtly apparent and often require more open communication or sharing from the individual in order to be known. For example, someone's sexual orientation cannot be deduced by simply looking at them, as it is an internal aspect of their identity.
Certain identities may also be hidden due to societal pressures, discrimination, or personal choice. Someone may choose to keep their religious beliefs private or conceal aspects of their mental health struggles due to stigma. Therefore, it is important to remember that not all identities are visible, and it is necessary to approach each person with respect and an open mind, understanding that there may be aspects of their identity that are not readily apparent.