Identity Formation and the Bordelandsof Self Essay

Identity Formation and the Bordelandsof Self - Essay Example g thought-provoking complicated autobiographical work that has significantly led to the construction of Chicana and â€Å"mestiza† collective identity. The author narrates her experience of spiritual awakening and growth as well as her introduction to self knowledge. This experience is not for her consumption alone. The author also delineates the social implications of spirituality as a source of power for all Chicanas. Anzaldua’s concept of spirituality is central to â€Å"la mestiza’s† cultural experience defined by the borderlands. Let us now asses the relevance of the concept of â€Å"borderland†. Literally, the term refers to the borders between Mexico and the United States. The term â€Å"border† brings to mind the war between these tow countries which culminated in the annexation of Texas to the US in the 19the century. This annexation, ironically, has resulted in the Chicanos becoming second-class citizens in their own country. Gringos in the US Southwest consider the inhabitants of the borderlands – transgressors, aliens, whether they possess documents or not, whether they are Chicanos, Indians or Blacks. Do not enter; trespassers will be raped, maimed, strangled, gassed, shot. The only â€Å"legitimate† inhabitants are those in power, the whites and those who align themselves with whites. Consider the plight of Pedro, a Chicano in the following extract from Anzaldua’s text: â€Å"In the confusion, Pedro ran, terrified of being caught. He couldn’t speak English, couldn’t tell them he was fifth-generation American. Sin papeles – he did not carry his birth certificate to work in the fields La Migra took him away while we watched. Se lo llevaron. He tried to smile when he looked back at us, to raise his fist. But I saw the shame pushing his head down. I saw the terrible weight of shame hunch his shoulders.† The term â€Å"borderland† in Anzaldua’s work points to the strict boundaries that Western thought has laid down in the