Understanding Identity

Introduction to Identity

• Each person has a unique identity.
• Identity includes aspects such as:
  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Family background (parents)

Meeting Different Identities

• Upon arriving at campus, you encounter diverse identities.
• Curiosity often leads to comparing and grouping people.

Grouping Based on Familiarity

• High School Connections

  • Some groups formed by friendships since high school.
  • Grouping based on previous school affiliation.

• Hometown/Ethnicity Connections

  • Individuals without school mates may bond with others from the same hometown or ethnicity.

• Faculty Grouping

  • New students often gather by their choice of faculty.
  • Creates a shared identity as students of a particular faculty.

Types of Identities

• Innate Identities

  • Ethnicity
  • Religion
  • Skin color

• Acquired Identities

  • Formed by personal choices or societal influences.
  • Variability in which identities hold significance for different individuals.

Perspectives on Identity

• Some individuals take pride in their identities, leading to judgments about others.
• Others may be overly protective or insecure about their identities.

The Nature of Identities

• Identities are diverse and natural.
• It's important to maintain a balanced perspective on identity.
• Despite differences, we can find commonalities among identities.

Conclusion

• Understanding and respecting differences is a human right.
• Shared identity as 'God’s humans' unites everyone.