I am German – and I am Brown

As a publication deeply rooted in Germany, Der Spiegel is committed to exploring the complexities of identity and belonging within our society. This personal essay by Santhiraraja-Abresch, a young woman born and raised in Bielefeld, resonates with the ongoing national conversation about racism and integration.

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You have brown skin like me, but somehow different.

Her narrative powerfully illustrates the subtle yet pervasive nature of racial discrimination, even within seemingly inclusive environments. The author's childhood experiences, where her skin color dictated how she was perceived and treated, highlight a painful reality for many with diverse backgrounds in Germany. The essay doesn't shy away from the emotional toll of such encounters, detailing the "long and painful process" of finding her own answer to the question of "who am I?"

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When a white person insults me with the N-word, it has a different meaning than for him – and that's not in the skin color.

What makes this piece particularly compelling from a German perspective is its examination of how identity is constructed and perceived. The author's journey from feeling "excluded" and "not fitting into any drawer" to finding a term that provides a sense of belonging speaks to the broader societal challenge of embracing and understanding a multicultural Germany. It’s a call for deeper introspection, urging us to look beyond superficial markers and recognize the shared humanity that transcends ethnic labels. This is not just an individual's story; it's a reflection of the evolving German identity.

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All Indians stink; some would imitate a supposedly Indian-sounding accent.