I’m proud of my Pakistani heritage

I may not look like the typical Pakistani, but people have always wanted to treat me differently because of my background. Though people may want to see me differently, I’ve never shied away from who I am – my Pakistani heritage is an integral component of my successes today.

My dad had to repeat his residency in the United States, and support his wife and two (soon to be three) kids on a minimal salary, working odd shifts and moonlighting whenever possible. We could only afford one car, so my mom would have to put my sister and I in a stroller and walk more than a mile-and-a half to the closest Stop & Shop just to get groceries when we needed them. But my parents were happy.

My amazing parents and I took this photo together before attending a traditional Pakistani Wedding.

Although we were raised here, my parents have always taught us to be proud of our Pakistani heritage. They didn’t give us names that were easy to pronounce, and encouraged us to tell our peers to take the time to learn and pronounce our names. Many people with ethnic names settle for any pronunciation just to make it easy for others. I have never allowed anybody to call me anything other than my real name: Gulrukh. It takes people a couple of tries, but I tell them “Gul” like a seagull, and “Rukh” like the chess piece. With a chuckle of appreciation, whoever I’m speaking to is easily able to say my name, which immediately starts a connection.

I was never taught to distinguish myself from people that are physically different than I am. I was always encouraged to show my friends what made me unique: my ability to speak three languages, my participation in Ramadan, where Muslims fast for one month, and so much more. I have always been eager to show my friends my beautiful Henna designs when I put it on twice a year, and even brought my friends intricate bangles as souvenirs from my last visit to Pakistan in 2005. When teachers asked us to bring in snacks for a party in class, I proudly brought Samosas and Gulab Jamun, delectable snacks from Pakistan. And rather than being ostracized for being different, I have always been embraced for it.

A cake I baked for Pakistani Independence Day on August 14th, 2015

Being of Pakistani origin is an integral part of who I am. It teaches me to be an open-book and laugh my troubles away. It teaches me to be a loyal friend and a loving person. It teaches me to never shy away from trying something new, and to stand proudly in the face of discrimination. If I didn’t have my wonderful Pakistani parents and support system growing up, I wouldn’t be the confident, loquacious, extrovert that I am today. Being a Pakistani has allowed me to love America more; this country has given me the opportunity to live and learn without the constant fear of being oppressed by a corrupt government.

This country lets me speak my language freely without discrimination. This country provides opportunities to me regardless of my skin color and ethnic origin. This country allows me to be American and Pakistani, and for that I am forever grateful.