Importance of Cultural Identity

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Importance of cultural identity

Cultural identity is the sense of belonging to a particular group which has been (delete) formed on the basis of religious beliefs, customs, values, norms, traditions, ancestry etc. People tend to associate themselves with groups, communities and cultures that they were (Passive voice) raised in or those groups they chose during their adulthood. Cultural identity plays a significant role in the lives of individuals and communities.

Cultural identity is an important basis for self-identity as it helps people know who they are and what they are. People’s values, principles, priorities, limits and sense of morality stem from their cultural groups .In defining ourselves, we first define where we come from then define our personal aspects. Others also define us by where we have come from. Therefore, by understanding our cultural groups, we understand ourselves and make it easier for others to understand us.

Cultural identity contributes to a feeling of belonging and a sense of security. People who identify with particular groups feel that they belong to a community held together by values, beliefs, challenges or ancestry. They feel that they are not alone as there are other people in their cultural groupings (They feel they are not left alone considering their cultural groupings). The sense of belonging contributes to happiness and general wellbeing of individuals.

Cultural identity is also a source of self-confidence. Achievement of cultural identity requires that individuals know and understand every aspect of their cultural groups. As people understand and accept their cultural groups, they develop confidence to defend their cultural groups, withstand stereotypes and fight discrimination.

Moreover, cultural identity encourages social networks which develop into social capital. People in a common cultural groups easily trust each other and create social bonds amongst themselves. These social bonds become channels of seeking help and giving help to individuals or communities. People join hands to solve their common problems through simple charity acts and complex charity acts like construction of public facilities.

Cultural identity may also contribute to appreciation of other cultural groups and peace amongst different groups (Repetition of group). When individuals fully appreciate their own cultures, they find it easier to explore other cultures and they learn to accept others without judgment (without being judgmental). Eventually, individuals from different cultural groupings interact positively and build broader cultural identities.