Race and Indigeneity interview

About this video

• Video Title: Race and Indigeneity interview
• Channel: Elijah Glanida
• Speakers: Elijah Glanida, Ceette Glenita
• Duration: 1:06:03

Overview

This video is an interview for a race and indigeneity project, featuring Elijah Glanida interviewing Ceette Glenita. The discussion covers Ceette's life and transition from the Philippines to the United States, her experiences with cultural differences, education systems, family support, and evolving perspectives on identity and belonging.

Key takeaways

• Ceette describes her upbringing in the Philippines as upper-middle class, attending private schools run by nuns, which contributed to a conservative outlook.
• The decision to immigrate to the U.S. was motivated by the prospect of a better life and opportunities, despite their established social standing in the Philippines.
• Transitioning to Los Angeles presented culture shock due to the more liberal environment compared to her conservative upbringing, but she found common ground with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Family played a crucial role in her adjustment to the U.S., providing support and mitigating homesickness.
• The Philippine educational system was more competitive and structured, with a greater focus on academics, while the U.S. system offered more freedom and flexibility.
• Ceette experienced a less pronounced social and class divide in the U.S. compared to the Philippines, where family lineage and last names held significant social standing.
• She found opportunities for internships and volunteer work in high school, which provided valuable experience and preparation for the workforce.
• Social expectations for women in the Philippines, particularly regarding academic achievement and career paths, were perceived as more restrictive than in the U.S.
• Ceette identifies as Filipino, viewing America primarily as a place of opportunity for education and career advancement, rather than a complete assimilation into American identity.