University of New Hampshire Archives

Ain’t much if you ain’t Dutch

January 5, 2022January 6, 2022 Adam Minkema, Anthropology 411, ct, Hamden, University of New Hampshire

Adam Minkema,
Hamden, CT

My father always taught me to be proud of my roots. As a young boy, I was susceptible to getting picked on because I was very pale and had long blonde hair. He explained to me that my ancestral make-up of genes was to blame for my unique complexion, but it was nothing to be ashamed of. In fact, I would look right at home in the Netherlands and plan on visiting soon. This taught me to be proud of my background and embrace it.

Anthropology 411 at the University of New Hampshire

“In the end, we all fruit”

January 14, 2020 Alex, Anthropology 411, NH, North Hampton, University of New Hampshire

Alex,
North Hampton, NH

This is part of a quote in the movie, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” and as a Greek woman myself, this is one of my most cherished part of the movie, when the Greek father of a daughter grapples with the fact that his daughter is in love with someone who isn’t Greek. At first, the Greek family doesn’t understand that daughter and almost seems to disown her. But after realizing how happy she is, the father realizes that their last name “Portokalos” and the husband’s last name “Miller” are both derivatives of the Greek words “orange” and “Apple” respectively. So he ends his speech saying, “we may be different, but in the end, we all fruit.” This is, in very simple terms, an explanation that attempts to get at this concept of race.

Anthropology 411 at the University of New Hampshire

Privilege? My job at a course.

January 14, 2020January 14, 2020 Anthropology 411, Durham, NH, Tommy G., University of New Hampshire

Tommy G.,
Durham, NH

I never gave it much thought before. I have a great summer job at a private golf course. A job I got because my Dad is a member. I’ve met some great contacts there, one of which helped me get an internship for next year. Now, I can’t help but think that being white has at least something to do with it. Should I feel privileged? It is definitely something I’m wondering about.

Anthropology 411 at the University of New Hampshire

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