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Connor is European American, but most of Connor's friends are African American. He likes to listen to hip-hop and jazz, and enjoys eating out at soul food restaurants. At his university, he was active in the Black Student Union, sang in the gospel choir, and pledged a traditionally African American fraternity. If you ask him, he will tell you that he feels more comfortable being with African Americans than he does with European Americans. What kind of racial/ethnic identity does Connor have?

2 Answers

6 votes

Final answer:

Connor's racial/ethnic identity can be described as cross-racial identification, where he feels a strong connection to African American culture, despite his European American ancestry. His identity illustrates the fluidity of racial and ethnic identity in modern society.

Step-by-step explanation:

The racial/ethnic identity that Connor may have does not fit neatly into traditional categories but seems more aligned with a cross-racial identification. He actively participates in cultural activities and social circles traditionally associated with African American culture and has stated he feels more comfortable within this group than his own European American ethnicity. Connor's identity illustrates the complex nature of racial and ethnic identities in America, where individuals may integrate into cultures different from their own ancestry. Connor's experience aligns with W.E.B Du Bois's concept of double-consciousness, where one's identity might be divided into several parts due to the demands and views of society.

Moreover, his situation reflects the modern understanding that race and ethnicity are social constructs that can be fluid and multifaceted. The removal of miscegenation laws and a trend towards greater acknowledgement and celebration of mixed ethnicities, as seen in contemporary society, have given individuals like Connor the freedom to self-identify in ways that are non-traditional and not strictly bound by their ancestral origins. This is indicative of a broader societal shift towards embracing multiple ethnic identities as highlighted in the context of the increasing number of people choosing multiple races to describe themselves in the census.

4 votes

Answer:

African American

Step-by-step explanation:

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