Intersecting Identities: Exploring the Dynamics of Being Filipino and Canadian

For every Filipino immigrant, who is living on international soils, this blog post speaks to you. Growing up as a Filipino-Canadian life becomes one roller coaster of a ride, you experience the uniqueness of two different cultures, living and blending into the norms of Canada while you perfectly preserve and embrace your roots from the Philippines as well. 

Being a person of color your journey of finding and resonating with your true identity has been complex and brought in a lot of unique challenges and worthy experiences. 

In this blog post, we will explore the intersection of identities for Filipino-Canadians and how their self-perception and cultural heritage have shaped them into who they are today. Let us appreciate their courage and embrace their unique experiences. 

The Filipino Heritage

Filipino culture and heritage are a result of a beautiful history and a blend of influences from different landscapes. It developed with the influence of Chinese, American, Spanish, and Malay people. 

A major part of Filipino culture is the value for families called “pakikisama” in Tagalog. We deeply value respect for elders and have a deep sense of community building.

Filipino culture is deeply rooted in our rich traditions and vibrant festivals. We take great pleasure in celebrating our annual events such as Sinulog and Ati-Atihan, while relishing our delicious dishes like Adobo and Sinigang.

These beautiful traditions, festivals, delicacies, and values truly embody the essence of Filipino culture and add to its charm.

A New Identity; Life In Canada

Adjusting to life in Canada is a challenge for Filipinos considering the fact that Canadian life is the complete opposite to that of the Philippines.

Canadians generally like to lead their lives individually, there's a diverse population and the climate in Canada is way colder. 

Yet, Canada is also known for its multiculturalism, tolerance and acceptance of people around the world.

Having a life in Canada welcomes many opportunities and fresh experiences.

You get to enjoy Canadian freedom and get an exposure to life changing opportunities like excellent higher education, career growth and societal benefits.

Your Filipino-Canadian Identity

Having an identity which blends two different cultures brings a lot to your life, you get to see the world from distinct perspectives and the world sees you as unique. However, the world isn’t your fairytopia, there are clashes you deal within your own self.

Where Do I Belong?

You may often find yourself having an identity crisis, it is common to think that you don’t belong to your culture and background, and you’re nothing like your people. Your mind may label you too Filipino to be Canadian or too Canadian to be Filipino.

But the reality is you’re the perfect fusion of both civilizations, you have your roots from your homeland which give you a unique identity, and your life here in Canada makes you a Canadian as much as anyone else.

It can be challenging to accept your truth but it’s never impossible.

Cultural Conflicts

The Western culture is entirely different from what we cherish in the Philippines. The traditional values of the Philippines and the Western ideals of Canada create internal conflict and identity struggles in our minds.

We are forced to question our belonging, authenticity, and cultural identity. These situations impact us in various aspects of our lives like family values, career choices, or even relationships.

Read More about Finding Balance: Juggling Family Expectations and Personal Goals.

Challenges And Opportunities

Being an immigrant in the land Canada welcomes many opportunities, but it also comes with its own challenges

Discrimination

Being a person of color in Canada, people face racism quite often. You face discrimination in opportunities based on your ethnicity, possibly accent, and how you look. This discrimination impacts people’s self-esteem and mental health easily.

Intergenerational Conflicts

Growing up away from your generational land, you might hold different values than your parents who immigrated, even when you do value your roots but living away you can only partially follow every tradition. This creates conflicts in your family dynamics.

Mental Health Issues As A Sign Of Weakness

In the Philippines, mental health issues are stigmatized and considered as a sign of weakness, they believe it to be untrue and unimportant, this becomes a problem when you need professional help and are denied it due to the sayings and values of your culture.

Importance Of Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy helps a lot in dealing with identity issues, and the feeling of not belonging anywhere. It plays a crucial role in supporting your Filipino-Canadian identity and gives you the feeling of acceptance within yourself and your beautifully rich background.

Role Of Larô Therapy

Larô Therapy is committed to provide you a safe space, which offers empathy and compassion for you to feel open about your thoughts.

We are here to help you accept and embrace every part of identity and committed to help you explore yourself and your cultural experiences in depth.

Visit our website, and begin your journey towards healing and acceptance today.