Sixth

“When I was six years old, my first-grade teacher announced that we were having a school-wide multicultural parade, and that she would choose several students to represent their cultural heritages in the parade. I was one of the lucky kids to be chosen, and was absolutely ecstatic for the parade. When the day came, however, it went very differently from what I’d imagined. My teacher asked, “What country are you representing?” I named a country and was given a flag, though I frantically asked for another: “Oh! But my mom is from another country!” My teacher turned to me and shrugged, “Well, you can only choose one.” To only be able to identify with one country confused me – how was I supposed to accept myself and my cultural heritage when I was told to “choose one”? I struggled for years after this to come to terms with my own identity – to accept it as valid – and I was scorned and ridiculed by many for my mixed ethnicity throughout this process. Today, I appreciate all the different parts that shape my mixed identity, big or small as they may be, and I am proud of them. I celebrate them; I celebrate me.” – Amanda Dam

Bio: I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia where I continue to live. I am a fourth-year undergraduate student at Emory University and am pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science major in Environmental Science, as well as a minor in Global Health, Cultures, and Societies. I aspire to pursue a career in medicine or public health. I speak six languages, but I would love to learn more. I enjoy singing, Bollywood movies, writing, laughing, and meaningful conversations.