Name: Patriciah Muthee
Age: 19
Hometown: North Kinangop, Nyandarua County, Kenya
Current Town: Liberty, MO
College/Major: Maple Woods Community College, Physical Therapy Major
Activities: Writing Poetry
What does being Black mean to you?
“Being Black means pride to me.”
If you don’t mind sharing, what was your earliest experience with racism?
“I haven’t had any experience yet.”
What do you want non-Black POC and white allies to know right now?
“Not all people of color are criminals.”
Want to share a story about race, racism, colorism, prejudice, etc.?
“No, I haven’t experienced any.”
Have you had any experiences with systemic racism (in school, work, etc.)?
“None.”
What societal pressures do you feel from moving from Kenya to America?
“Trying to keep all the Kenyan cultures going here and trying not to lose my roots.”
Why did your family choose to come to America?
“To look for greener pastures.”
What surprised you the most about coming to live in America?
“How people share their personal/most private stuff with strangers.”
What do you miss about Kenya?
“I miss walking around freely, the food, and my friends.”
People tend to have their ideas of what Africa is like, so what do you want to tell Americans about life in Kenya?
“Life in Kenya is fun. People don’t let poverty stop their happiness. They look for joy in small things. And not everyone is poor. That’s what the media wants you to see. There are so many good things there. You just need to go there and see for yourself.”
What kind of racism or other prejudices exist in Kenya?
“There’s no racism in Kenya but white people are considered to be rich.”
How can white people and non-Black POC support their Black friends?
“Maybe just help other people understand that not all Black people are criminals.”
How much does being African affect your everyday life?
“I sometimes fear for my security.”
How do the politics of Kenya differ from the politics of the U.S.?
“Kenya has so many political parties.”
What are you passionate about?
“I am passionate about helping people and that’s why I chose to be a physical therapist.”
What inspires you?
“Life in Kenya is what inspires me. I have seen people struggle and I don’t want to end up there.”
Who do you look up to?
“I look up to my parents and older brother.”
If you have something you want to promote (your art, music, business, etc.) do it here!
“I write some poems.”
Here are 20 of Patriciah's favorite songs!
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