Getting to Know your Community

BY Lovenia Hardin

Liberty High School Parent

As a native of Washington State, East King County, I grappled with articulating our cultural identity in this article. Sharing aspects of one's culture is akin to revealing parts of oneself and lived experiences. There is often an expectation to convey something inherently defining. Yet, the challenge lies not in presenting something fundamental but in expressing a cultural concept that diverges from the mainstream narrative of Native peoples in the United States.

When approached to write about my culture, it was a moment of awakening for me. I agreed enthusiastically, contemplating including my family's rich cultural history rooted in blackness. However, as I delved into what the article would encompass, I quickly realized that our cultural practices and traditions were not vastly dissimilar from those of others.

At times, there's a prevailing perception that because my family is black, we are somehow inherently different. Yet, it is essential to acknowledge that while we take pride in our black identity, we also share many common cultural traditions with other Americans. Like countless families native to the United States, we observe Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's traditions with appropriate décor for each. We partake in the festivities of all major U.S. holidays, enjoy Tuesday game nights, and savor meals like hamburgers and fries.

The misconception that our skin color denotes a fundamental difference fails to recognize the universal truth that beneath our varying shades lies a shared humanity deserving of equal respect, dignity, and opportunity.

You may know me by name. Perhaps as the former Girl Scout Service Unit Manager, a troop leader, a volunteer within the Issaquah School District, or a PTSA council board member. However, what truly matters to me is my role as a mother to my three daughters and a wife to my husband.

While actively engaging in various community roles, my family and I have encountered challenges that have left their mark. One significant issue has been the discomfort or reluctance of some individuals to engage with me directly, often preferring to communicate through intermediaries. Additionally, my children have unfortunately experienced instances of racial discrimination, enduring hurtful language, and intrusive inquiries about their physical appearance. Despite these challenges, my daughters maintain a resilient spirit, and it is heartening to witness the community's efforts to foster a more inclusive environment.

My name is Lovenia Hardin. Alongside my husband, we are proud parents of three daughters: a Junior and a senior at Liberty High. Our eldest is an alumna of Liberty and attends the University of Washington, Seattle. For the past 19 years, our family has been an integral part of the school district community, and this, too, is a part of our culture.