Italian/Mexican | African-American/Jamaican/Native American

Photo credit: provided by subject

I identify as a fab over 40 Black, Italian, Mexican and Native American woman. An energizer bunny ‘pre-Rona’ who was a busy New Yorker that was never home, I've found more balance, enjoying more quiet time and solitude. Focusing more on what's true to my values and the quality of life I aim to have.

My Mom is of African-American, Jamaican and Native American descent. My Dad's Mother was born in Italy, and his paternal Grandfather was born in Mexico. They met through a local church youth group.

Their own upbringings were very Americanized, so mixing their cultures wasn't really an issue for them. My Mom lived in a mostly White neighborhood. But with my Mom being Black and my Dad White skinned my Dad's Father didn't support their wedding in 1975. But he came around by the time I, his first grandchild, was born 3 years later.

As a kid I just saw myself as Black and White, since I didn't grow up near the Mexican side of the family. I did have insecurities as a pre-teen/teen with an afro puff in a mostly White neighborhood, feeling very different and not knowing where I fit in. I only learned more of my heritage when in college, and even in the past few years. But as an adult, I am proud of my multi-racial heritage, it worked to learn more about my background (some learned only thanks to Ancestry.com!) and feel I have the best of all worlds! I didn’t grow up with any traditions, I just strive to go out to different events. Especially around music and performing, that showcase my different cultures. Also whenever I have a family of my own, I plan to incorporate fun activities to show them all of their cultures.

I grew up in the 80s when there weren't many people of mixed-race visible in my community, media, TV etc. Growing older and knowing myself, and then of course with changing times it has evolved tremendously!

My idol is Tina Turner. All she has overcome, how she reinvented herself after her divorce, reclaimed her identity as an independent woman and performer. And challenged those who said she was too old at 40 to succeed as a solo artist. And my Mom, she has also endured so much and as I've gotten older I admire and respect even more all she has overcome.

We need better education and open dialogue in our elementary and middle schools. As adults, we also need to be willing to have constructive, respectful conversations with those who are different from us. It is the only way we can learn and bridge the gap; we can make an impact one conversation at a time. Companies need to do a lot more for diversity initiatives, to incorporate in their HR departments, orientations, Trainings and ensure their environment is an open and welcoming one that allows all the opportunity for success and growth.

I've had ups and downs during the pandemic like most people. Especially last year with the overwhelming media coverage of COVID concerns, the presidential candidates, the George Floyd protests, racial tensions, etc. I felt myself getting sucked in, in an unhealthy way. So I decided to take an unplugged solo vacation to Fire Island beach, no social media, news alerts, emails, zooms. I enjoyed exercise on the beach, sunbathing, journaling, reading, re-evaluating and identifying my values and goals. It was pure bliss, I felt like a weight had been lifted. I was getting back to my goal of being the healthiest I can in mind, body, and spirit.

The last time I cried was when watching the cast of Broadway’s The Lion King have their first rehearsal since the pandemic. Music and theatre always move me, and the significance of that moment is tremendous!