Being White and from the Caribbean - The Global WI

Identity and Misconceptions

Nikola Simpson describes being repeatedly mistaken for Irish, British, Australian, or American because people did not expect someone from the Caribbean to be white. She also encountered stereotypes that Caribbean people live in huts on beaches and felt frustrated when people knew little about Barbados.

A Shift in Perspective

Over time, she came to see that unfamiliarity can explain these assumptions, just as people may have gaps in their knowledge about other places. Her response shifted from frustration toward educating others.

Background

Simpson identifies as Bajan. She was born in Barbados, has lived there for most of her life, and has deep family roots in the Caribbean.

Places mentioned: Barbados, the Caribbean, and Canada.