“I Am Not South Asian,” is your resource for understanding the rich tapestry of identities outside South Asia
This site celebrates many cultures' histories and individuality. Expect a smart, insightful, and funny ride.
Highlights
“History isn't just written by the victors; it's crafted by every individual who ever existed, each adding their colorful thread to the vast human tapestry.”
“Your story matters whether you're from the Andes, Alps, Serengeti, or Sahara. We honor and share it.”
“In a world that often lumps vast swathes of humanity into neat boxes, ‘I Am Not South Asian' is your reminder that identities are complex, dynamic, and gloriously unique.”
Identity Journey
Beyond South Asia, Identity is as old as humanity. It's in Lascaux caves, Peruvian textiles, and American Southwest petroglyphs. Each of these historical monuments tells the tale of people like you defining themselves in a world that valued clean categories above muddy facts. “I Am Not South Asian,” believes identity is about where you're going, not where you're from. We research and appreciate the diverse histories and cultures of non-South Asians.
The Cradle of Civilization: A Wider View
You may think of the Fertile Crescent, where Sumerians originated writing, or the Indus Valley, where urban planning began. But civilization has many cradles. The ancient Nubian kingdoms of Africa rivaled Egypt in power. These Nile civilizations left pyramids and significant cultural achievements. The Great Zimbabwe in southeastern Africa is a reminder of a rich history often obscured by more famous ancient societies.
America: Beyond the Bering Strait
The Americas had intricate civilizations and empires before Columbus. Aztecs, Mayans, and Incas had complex civilizations with unique social systems, art, and technology. Their contributions to arithmetic, astronomy, and agriculture were huge. Iroquois, Navajo, and Sioux tribes in North America had complex cultures and rich traditions before Europeans arrived. Oral histories, spiritual rituals, and complex governance structures show their civilizations' richness and depth.
The Pacific: Identity Islands
Hawaiian, New Zealand, and other Pacific Islands have rich cultures. Polynesian navigators crossed the seas using stars before European explorers. Like the Pacific, their oral histories, myths, and legends are immense. The warrior culture and Haka dance of New Zealand's Maori extend back generations. Their language, art, and customs survived colonization and thrive today.
Africa: Beyond Safari
Misrepresentations about Africa abound. It goes beyond safaris and pyramids. The continent has around 1,500 languages and is diverse. From bustling West African markets to Sahara deserts and Congo jungles, each region has its tale. Ethiopia has some of the world's oldest rock-carved churches. During the Mali Empire's golden age, Timbuktu was a center of learning and culture.
Europe: Beyond Western History
Although Europe is a diverse continent, its history is largely centered on its Western nations. Eastern European Slavic countries have significant folklore, music, and dance traditions. The Balkans' complex history of empires and warfare has shaped European culture. The Sámi of Scandinavia have survived one of the hardest climates on Earth. Their languages, crafts, and customs show how modernity and tradition coexist.
Conclusion
“I Am Not South Asian” reminds you that identities are complicated, dynamic, and magnificently distinct in a world that often confines people into neat boxes. This site celebrates the many identities that make our globe so diverse, not simply South Asian ness. Your Story Matters whether you're from the Andes, Alps, Serengeti, or Sahara. We honor and share it. Join us on this discovery adventure. Explore the histories you didn't learn in school, the marginalized cultures, and most importantly, your uniqueness. After all, history is written by everyone, each adding their colorful thread to the enormous human tapestry.