Racial Authenticity

Social identities play a key role in discovering oneself. Many resort in altering their own identities to conform to societal norms. Authenticity is one cultural referent associated with being original and genuine to cultural values. However, authenticity is a system based on expectations created overtime to satisfy cultural and societal needs. This classifies it as an act of conformity where one is accepted and validated for within their culture and the society. The article, Racial Authenticity Among Second Generation Youth In Multiethnic New York and London by Natasha Warikoo, discusses the concept of racial authenticity in a multiethnic context. In her research, Warikoo evaluates how second generation teenagers in New York and London express

However, adherence to the scripts for one’s racial identity led to acceptance and prestige. The consumption of black-identified hip–hop music and style was most dominant. Among co-ethnic groups, Black Identity was one of the most popular cultures in both the schools especially in New York. It was considered of higher social status, which is why many students would indulge in listening to hip hop music, dress in baggy clothing, wear gold necklaces and so on, adhering to traits which were associated with the culture. The other reason for adopting the black culture was to gain more friends and to acquire a higher status and a tougher image among their peers. Similarly the South Asian community was greatly influenced by the black culture where hip hop and R&B music was popular and mixed together with Bhangra music. However it was noticeable that while other students found it easy to cross ethnic boundaries in acquisition of completely different ethnicity, the south asians would still hold on to their cultural practices while having mixed preferences in music and dressing styles. The reason behind it being that South Asians are particular in passing their traditional values and to keep the culture alive within their daily practices. These trends additionally varied when they were studied through the gender paradigm, females were more inclined to follow cultural indulgences over men by wearing ethnic clothing, applying henna and wearing bangles. They had more expectations to promote their cultural practices and beliefs through attire, language and other traditions primarily because as women they were considered to be more responsible in keeping their cultural practices alive and