South Pacific to Southern US: Aynsley Broom's Journey in Reclaiming Her Roots

Roots Reclaimed

In this episode of Roots Reclaimed, Aynsley Broom, of Sāmoan descent, shares her journey of rediscovering her cultural roots while living far from her heritage. Growing up in Arkansas and now residing in Nashville, Aynsley reflects on her upbringing and the influence of her diverse background. She discusses the challenges of reconnecting with her Sāmoan heritage in a predominantly white community and the importance of embracing her cultural identity.
Aynsley delves into starting her platform, Sipping KoKo, as a way to connect with her community, learn more about her heritage, and encourage others to reclaim their cultural identities. She highlights the struggles and criticisms she faced, emphasizing the need for grace, self-acceptance, and the support of elders in the community.
The conversation explores the complexities of identity, facing judgment from both within and outside the community, and the process of advocating for one's right to reclaim heritage. Aynsley encourages individuals to embark on their reclamation journey, emphasizing the importance of giving oneself grace, seeking guidance from elders, and engaging with cultural resources such as books, movies, and music to reconnect with their roots.
The discussion touches on the significance of ancestral pride, the power of storytelling, and the reclaiming of cultural narratives. Aynsley shares personal anecdotes, experiences, and advice for those struggling to embrace their cultural identity. The episode concludes with a message of empowerment, resilience, and the celebration of diverse cultural heritages within the AANHPI community.

Chapters

1. Cultural Identity and Survival (00:00:00)

2. Immigration and Labor in the US (00:07:49)

3. Reconnecting with Ancestral Lands (00:14:21)

4. Breaking Chains of Colonization (00:21:18)

5. Embracing Ancestral Revenge (00:24:56)

6. Starting the Reclamation Journey (00:26:46)