Seascapes: Shaped by the Sea by Brown Mike; Humberstone Barbara;

Author:Brown, Mike; Humberstone, Barbara;
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor and Francis
Published: 2015-04-04T04:00:00+00:00

Brown Bodyboarder

In bodyboarding and ‘brown’ circles there tends to be a sense of camaraderie stemming from common experiences of being marginalised in the surf field and in society. Indeed, when I see another brown person or bodyboarder in the surf, there is a sense of understanding and respect for what it took to be in that position. Going against societal norms is no easy feat and Bourdieu is useful to help understand this position. He points out that, with people who have similar tastes, there are ways of knowing, understanding and appreciating the nuances associated with that practise (Bourdieu, 1984). Thus, knowing the feeling of being marginalised in the surf, by being brown or by being a bodyboarder, is one that helps me feel united with individuals who have similar experiences.

My mixed ethnic upbringing has played a major role in being comfortable about going against societal norms, as I do not feel confined or obligated to join mainstream ways of being. I am Māori, yet I do not feel confined or obligated to practise Māori traditions. I am also Samoan, but I do not feel confined or obligated to practise Samoan traditions. I feel I can move freely in both worlds, which is why I believe I have the confidence to make my own space in the surf field. One of the most enthralling aspects I enjoy is being different. I am in no means your typical ‘girly-girl’. I do not choose to wear make-up or dresses and my favourite clothing is surf shorts and a t-shirt. My idea of fun involves elements of risk most females fear. I do not know how to play rugby or netball, although many of my friends do. I embrace the fact that I am brown, that I am female and that I bodyboard. There is nothing stereotypical about who I am and what I represent. The surf enables me to express myself freely, to show that yes, I am different but I belong here.

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