Culture refers to the customs, traditions, beliefs, and values shared by a group of people. It can include things like language, food, music, and the way people celebrate different events. Identity is all about who you are – it’s shaped by your culture, your background, your interests, and the way you see yourself. Your identity is unique to you, and understanding your culture and identity can help you feel confident about who you are. 

Your culture and identity are a big part of what makes you, you. They affect how you see the world, how you relate to others, and how others see you. For many people, culture is something to feel proud of, it connects us to our roots and the generations before us. Exploring your identity can help you understand yourself better, build strong relationships, and feel more connected to your community. 

Figuring out who you are can take time, and that’s totally normal. Your identity is made up of lots of things, like: 

  • Family and background: Your family’s traditions and heritage can be a big part of your identity. 

  • Language: The language or languages you speak can connect you to your culture and community. 

  • Interests and hobbies: The things you love to do, like sports, music, or art, are an important part of who you are. 

  • Gender and sexuality: How you identify in terms of gender and who you’re attracted to can be key parts of your identity. 

  • Beliefs and values: The things that matter most to you, like being kind, fair, or standing up for what’s right, are also part of who you are. 

It’s okay for your identity to change over time as you learn new things and grow. You might explore different parts of your identity or feel differently about certain aspects as you get older. 

Sometimes people might not understand your culture, or they might make you feel different because of it. Remember, your culture is something to be proud of. Sharing your traditions with others can help them understand you better, and it can also be a great way to connect with friends. If you feel like people aren’t respecting your culture or are being hurtful, it’s important to talk to a trusted adult, like a teacher, school nurse, or family member. 

Unfortunately, people can sometimes make assumptions about you based on your culture or background – these are called stereotypes. Stereotypes are unfair and can make you feel like people are not seeing the real you. If you’re experiencing discrimination or being treated unfairly because of your culture or identity, you deserve support.