Ingrid Boonekamp

It's a jarring moment when I hear that question. Every single time. The years have made me jaded, and more frustrated/agitated. What does it matter? Why do I have to tell you? Is it so you can create some likeness to some stereotype you think is real or true? Compare me to others that you know share the same race? Or attach some predetermined stigma so you can make some relation, and make you feel better about knowing "what I am?".

The one I hate the most is when they stand there guessing. Over and over. Even when they get it right the first, second or third time. Like they won a prize, always followed up with "I knew it! I have a friend that is..."

I was born here, my passport is Australian, and whilst I have mixed-race background, my ethnicity, my history, my cultures, are just that – mine. It's none of your goddamn business. Ask me another question.