Justin Hatfield Introduction

Hey everyone, I'm Justin. I am 19 years old, living off-campus now in downtown Lincoln. My life has definitely been an interesting one, as I was born on US soil, however moved around quite a bit for my fathers' career in the military. Growing up in Hawaii and Virginia for a short period of time, my sister and I discovered most of our writing and reading skills, and social etiquette where learned while growing up and attending school with other children (from around the world - also in similar situations for the most part) in Australia’s capital - Canberra. 

After returning to the states, I have come to identify myself mainly with that of my Native culture. I tend to stray away from considering myself white, emphasizing my biological father’s family Lebanese ancestry. Furthermore, I have been more exposed to Native traditions upon returning to US and I was blessed to have the honour of graduating a Native honour student (participated in a graduation ceremony held by the Omaha tribe). Alongside discovering my heritage and traditions upon returning from Australia, I came to experience and be a art of a whole new lifestyle and aspect of human nature. My mother became increasingly involved in music and took a partner, Karen, after discovering her true self. My sister and I both have been taken care of and raised by these two strong, and highly intelligent women for the past 6 years. 

After having a few disappointing experiences with the [mainstream] Christian religion, I found myself claiming no religion of my own. Interested in all religions and ways of life, I have adopted many different views and values from each religion I have come in to contact with. Religion and language are key in interacting with other on a mutual level level of understanding. I have much to learn, but I take pride in the experiences that have kept my mind open to all walks of life.

As a result of my experiences and education abroad, I have conclusively decided on working to become a foreign affairs officer for the US government. In having the experiences throughout my life, I feel it is pertinent to use my abilities to better relations between the US and China. I feel I have the capability to make the changes necessary in government to better life for the people it governs. Widespread corruption and arrogant politicians dirty the US and Chinese governments, and I feel those who are willing and experienced can make changes for the better of both of our societies.

Life before Nebraska was extremely productive, in the sense that I learned so much from my surroundings and of other people and cultures. It is a part of my life to want to explore and want to go see new places and meet new people. I feel very passionate about that aspect of who I am as an individual and live to understand others and the reasons behind who they are and the what/why about their viewpoints to create a better relationship - learning more and more from each person I meet (i.e. this class is extremely useful in contextualizing and further examining different cultures and people around us).

I feel I am truly an un-American [Native] American. I do follow The Great Spirit - as my ancestors did generations ago - and I have and always will be open to all cultures, religions, and languages. I do feel that my life has been an interesting one at that, and believe I have a responsibility to use my abilities for the benefit of those around me to create a better, more worldly society - as complex and beautiful as it is. I believe we should work towards furthering cultural understanding worldwide and preserve our rights as human beings (human rights, etc.). I am not cocky or self absorbed, however am determined to find that path towards continuing the push to further “racial” understanding, and establish the fact we are all made as equals.

I am not pure or perfect, but that’s me and a little sliver of my cultural identity. 

Thanks!

Justin Hatfield