Be You: Embracing Your Cultural Identity in the Workplace

I remember my first day walking to class at Rutgers University. It was a crisp September morning, and I was prepared in my long sleeve tee, jeans, sneakers, thick polo socks, coat, and backpack. I had moved into on-campus housing a few weeks before and it was my first time living with someone who wasn't family and being completely on my own. My roommate was completely unlike me in every way possible—different background, different interests, different everything. I felt completely out of my depth. On that first day of classes, though, I was excited to see what else was out there. In an attempt to find my people and stake my cultural claim, I had put a Jamaican flag in the front sleeve of my bag. I wanted people to see and know where I came from, to feel a connection to my roots even in this new, unfamiliar place.

Thinking about that time compared to the first time I walked into my first job in the US was such a big difference. By then, I wanted to fit in, to blend in with the crowd as much as possible. I remember deliberately choosing outfits that wouldn’t stand out, minimizing any mention of my background, and focusing on not making waves. The “twanging”… ugh… that code switch was real. I even wore a long, straight weave (eek). The vibrant Jamaican flag was tucked away, replaced by a muted desire to conform.

But as I navigated my career, I began to realize the importance of embracing my cultural identity. It wasn't just about personal pride; it was about bringing my whole self to work, enriching the workplace with diverse perspectives, and fostering a more inclusive environment.

Why Embracing Your Cultural Identity Matters

Authenticity Leads to Confidence: When you embrace your cultural identity, you can be your authentic self. This authenticity translates into confidence, which can positively impact your performance and interactions at work.

Fosters Inclusivity: By sharing your cultural background, you help foster a more inclusive workplace. It encourages others to share their own stories, creating a richer, more diverse environment.

Drives Innovation: Diverse perspectives lead to innovative solutions. Your unique cultural experiences can provide fresh insights and approaches to problem-solving that others might not consider.

Practical Tips for Embracing Your Cultural Identity at Work

Share Your Story: Don’t be afraid to share your cultural background and experiences with your colleagues. This can be done through casual conversations, presentations, or during cultural celebrations.

Celebrate Cultural Events: Take the initiative to celebrate cultural events and holidays at work. This can be a great way to educate your colleagues and share the richness of your culture.

Incorporate Cultural Elements: Whether it’s your style of dress, food, or traditions, find subtle ways to incorporate elements of your culture into your daily work life. This can spark curiosity and appreciation among your coworkers.

Join or Form Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): ERGs can provide a supportive community for people from similar backgrounds. They also serve as a platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion within the organization.

Educate and Advocate: Take opportunities to educate your colleagues about your culture. This can be through formal presentations or informal discussions. Advocacy can also mean supporting policies and practices that promote cultural diversity.

Mentor Others: Use your experiences to mentor others who might be struggling with embracing their cultural identity. Your journey can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Overcoming Challenges

Embracing your cultural identity in the workplace isn’t always easy. There may be moments of discomfort or resistance. Here are some strategies to navigate these challenges:

Find Allies: Identify colleagues who support diversity and inclusion. Allies can provide support and amplify your voice when advocating for cultural diversity.

Stay Resilient: There may be setbacks or misunderstandings, but it’s important to stay resilient. Remember the bigger picture and the positive impact of embracing your cultural identity.

Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support from HR if you encounter significant resistance or discrimination. It’s important to address these issues to create a more inclusive workplace for everyone.

Reflecting on my journey from Rutgers to my professional career, I’ve learned that embracing your cultural identity is not just about personal pride; it’s about contributing to a richer, more inclusive workplace. By bringing our whole selves to work, we can drive innovation, foster inclusivity, and create environments where everyone can thrive.

Remember, “wah fi yuh, cyaan un fi yuh.”

~Meisha