YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

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Dual Identity Crisis Roshni & Panel
Don't let the title scare you! This session will ex As an audience member you will have the opportunity to
plore the obstacles we encounter on a day to swap stories and come to resolutions. day basis. The session will be straightforward consisting of youth that has faced various issues through different stages of life such as middle school and leading up to college. We will analyze each stage and pick out different issues that maybe directly related to that particular stage versus everyday life. Some issues discussed will include vegetarianism, religion, and social issues. We hope that at the end of the session, you will have a better idea on who you are.
Growing up as the minority in any country can be difficult but not impossible. We can be who we want to be without being criticized by other people and expressing ourselves also. Growing up in a western world can be crazy at times, but hopefully this session will help you deal with any obstacles or hardships you may have encountered or will encounter in the future.
Are you more receptive to advice from peers or parents? This is a conflict, at any age, that influences decisions we make. In this session, hear from peers that will share their stories and experiences with you.
notes:
Jain Education Intemational 2010 03
Here are some questions that may be posed to you from the moderator:
What are some experiences you have had that can help us understand what you are going through, and how you dealt with the issue?
What advice can you give to help others deal with similar situations?
Does Jainism play a factor in your decisions, or do you believe some youth have lost faith?
Does academic pressures cause stress in your life? Knowing that you come from a strong ethnic background, are you proud of who you are or ashamed of you are? Most of us are the minority, so how do you represent your ethnicity in your community?
Can you associate with one culture or mixed living as an Indian in a western society? Are you juggling both sides of the coin by fitting in both cultures?
The audience will have an opportunity to be able to explore resolutions to issues that the majority encounters. What ever your identity is, don't loose sight of the reality!
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