Your cart is currently empty!
Please Refrain from Inquiring About My Children’s Origins
Dear Global Community,
I kindly request that you stop asking my children about their origins. My son, Zayd, embodies a unique blend of cultures—he was born in Australia, yet he cannot speak Arabic. He can recite the Quran and is equally familiar with popular songs like “Watch Me (Whip/Nae Nae).” This beautiful complexity is something I cherish, and I wish for the world to see my children without the constraints of labels.
Frequently, well-intentioned individuals approach Zayd, asking, “Where are you from?” While I appreciate the curiosity, it often leads to confusion and discomfort. For instance, when Zayd responds with “Australia,” he is met with skepticism due to my hijab and his distinct features. Conversely, if he mentions “Lebanon” (a country we’ve never visited), the follow-up question is, “When did you come to Australia?” This leads to an exhausting cycle of probing inquiries that my son shouldn’t have to navigate.
Just last week, I encountered a particularly awkward moment during my children’s sports day. A stranger approached me, asking if I was Mia’s mom. I confirmed, introducing myself as Leila. She then remarked, “But you wear a hijab! And Mia speaks English so well.” This left me momentarily speechless. Why should my daughter’s intelligence be linked to my choice of attire? In this day and age, it is disheartening that our first impressions are often based on appearances.
Each individual has a rich and intricate story, and my children’s narrative is no exception. I don’t want Zayd to feel pressured to justify his existence with lengthy explanations about his heritage, such as: “I am from Australia, born here, while my mother came from another country at a young age.” He shouldn’t have to validate his identity or prove his language skills, which he has developed beautifully.
Interestingly, Zayd’s friend, Liam, who was born in Ireland, never faces such inquiries. I suspect this is because his name and appearance align with what is considered “normal” in Australia. This discrepancy presents an unfair challenge for my son, who will one day recognize the disparity in treatment.
For now, I will continue to teach my children about the multifaceted nature of human identity. I will emphasize that they deserve respect based on their actions and values. Ultimately, I want them to identify as global citizens, belonging to Team Humanity, rather than being defined by their backgrounds.
If you’re interested in exploring more about pregnancy and home insemination, I recommend checking out this excellent resource on infertility statistics, or this insightful post on our other blog. Additionally, for those considering at-home options, Make a Mom’s Baby Maker can provide valuable information.
In summary, let us strive to allow children to grow without the burden of trying to explain their origins. Rather, let’s embrace the richness of their individual stories and remind them that they are valued simply for who they are.