What were some examples that you saw? Describe what this activity was like for you? How did the participants choose which identities to share? Did anyone in the group surprise you? Why? How did it feel to be able to stand up and challenge stereotypes?

I am but I’m not

The activity engages participants in a process of identifying what they consider to be the most salient dimensions of their own identity. It is also a helpful introduction to stereotypes and ways in which people identify salient stereotypes in their lives.

Introduction
Common stereotypes can be very hurtful and difficult for individuals to celebrate their own identities. In this activity we will claim some of our own identities and dispel stereotypes we may believe exist about the group.

How to Play

1. As 5 participants to fold their paper in half and re-open it to create 2 columns. On one side, the heading will be “I am.” On the other side, the heading will be “I am not.” Instruct participants to write the word “but” in the middle of the two columns.

2. Students will be asked to write at least five “I am, but, I am not” statements on their paper. Demonstrate one example to the group, such as, “I am Asian, but I am not good at math.” Participants should use this opportunity to introduce their identity and dispel any stereotypes about them.

3. Make sure there are no questions, and allow time for everyone to write at least five statements.

4. Allow participants to share their own after emphasizing listening skills and respect.

You will write about the following:

1. What were some examples that you saw?

2. Describe what this activity was like for you?

3. How did the participants choose which identities to share?

4. Did anyone in the group surprise you? Why?

5. How did it feel (for you and for the participants) to be able to stand up and challenge stereotypes?

6. (if there was any laughter during the exercise) What was that about? Why were people laughing?

7. Where did we learn these stereotypes?

8. How can we reduce them? What role do we play in doing so?

Things to Consider

Addressing stereotypes is always a trigger. The debrief is very important. People may articulate stereotypes in their “but I am not” that might trigger other participants. A helpful way to debrief is to ask the group (or individual) “Where did you learn that stereotype? What was your first message about that stereotype? How is it reinforced for you?” It might also be helpful to ask other participants if they had heard that stereotype before and what their first messages about it were, too. The key to this activity is the process of examining one’s own identity and the stereotypes associated with that identity, then having one’s own stereotypes challenged through others’ stories and stereotype challenges. It is crucial, especially for the final part of the activity when participants are sharing their stereotypes, to allow for silences. People will be hesitant to share initially, but once the ball starts rolling, the activity carries a lot of energy. Allow time at the end for participants to talk more about whatever stereotype they shared.