In the Mix

More mix-raced children are being born than ever before. In fact we are the fastest growing race in the United Kingdom. As an Irish Indian, I'm proud to be part of this 21st century advancement in society. Being mix-raced has enriched my life more than you could probably envisage. It has been suggested that mix-raced children struggle with a sense of belonging, caught between two different worlds. It has even been said that we may be 'confused' about our identity. I would like to set the record straight.

I've often been in situations where people refer to me as 'half' whether it be half-Indian or half-Irish, implying that I'm somehow not a whole person. Born from a Catholic mother and Muslim father, the issue of religion has also been raised. 'What are you then?' Children at school weren't exactly tactful in approaching me, and I often found it necessary to 'explain myself.' Many people have found it difficult to understand that I wasn't half, I was double. The integration of two cultures and religions had created more love in one household than you could ever imagine. From an early age, I learnt that there was one God, and although people used different paths to reach Him, we all arrived at the same place. I've been to Ireland and India, kissed the Blarney stone and visited the Taj Mahal. Praying in both church and the mosque, I never felt excluded anywhere. Named Rachel Ayesha, I am able to interchange between two worlds, and adapt to any environment. Far from being half a person, I was almost leading a double life.

Being mix-raced has not only enriched my experiences but it has affected my perception of people and the world. From being very young, I learnt that people cannot be classified by race or cultural background. With regards to marriage, I was not advised to find 'a nice Indian boy' or a 'good Irish Catholic lad.' The words were, if I remember exactly, 'it's hard enough to find someone to love without worrying about race or anything else.' At 19, I have much to learn in that department but at least when I do settle down I won't have to worry about the colour of their skin. This is something I have discovered common amongst even my generation: the idea of finding a 'suitable' partner with the same background and culture. This aggravates me profusely. I believe my parents are soul mates: the Catholic and the Muslim; the Indian and the 'Paddy'; the Tory and the Labour supporter. Explain that. After 25 years together, these theoretical 'problems' have never actually been an issue.

I truly believe in 50 years the majority of the nation will be mix-raced. My wish is for everyone to witness the merge of two worlds, just as I have. This is the key to end discrimination forever and open our eyes to the vast range of cultures that are part of our society. It can create more love and understanding, and with these at our fingertips we can tackle the world.