04/04/2024
Discussions and theories about the immigrant Asians creating a ghetto narrative of 'brownness' in their community as well as how American politics perceives brown identity post 9/11 are rampant in academia.
The Pine Cone Review, however, doesn't believe identity is limited to such monoliths.
The virtual literary magazine was founded based on the interweave between the philosophy inspired by the botanical truths of the pine cone with the personal search for identity by the EiC. Hence, the possibility of interaction beyond the limits of ‘home’ assigned to the metaphor of the pine cone is the essence of a discussion on brownness and brown identity for us.
In this world 'brown' can be used in a derogatory sense, or conversely, a compliment. The grand irony being what one may dislike, another will covet. Brownness and color have been utilized as tools of oppression more than they have positively; perhaps as a form of social control, one-up-manship, colonization or to justify atrocity and oppression. In recent years, great strides have taken place in society en-mass given our mutual attachment to social media and tech. Some of those great strides have been the breaking down of former barriers of oppression. Those who suffer in silence, can speak. Those who were former victims can be victors. Those who were told they were 'less than' realize their strength and beauty. But it's also a time of coming together, with the proliferation of DNA testing we can discover that we're more alike than we are different, and even difference isn't something to use against someone but to admire and appreciate. It is our hope this will lead one day to a colorblind world, though as yet there still exists much inequity and imbalance, where change is still very necessary. By using art and creative modes of expression we hope to lay the groundwork for one tribe, whilst respecting the glory of a multitude of colors and ethnic backgrounds that make us so amazing as human beings.
Delve into the cauldron of 'brownness' using experiences and/or imagination and create flash pieces and artworks. We are eagerly waiting for your creations!
www.thepineconereview.com