Understanding Bias Through a Unique Cultural Perspective
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Chapter 1: The Encounter
As the automatic door swung open, a figure appeared — a customer entering the mobile phone shop where I worked. I rose to assist.
An elderly man stepped in, a common sight in this rural shop where older patrons often sought help with technology. However, upon seeing me, his expression changed.
"Is there a Japanese staff member available?" he inquired.
I managed a smile and called for my Japanese coworker, but internally, I felt a familiar heaviness. This scenario had played out many times before, and while it often meant less work for me, it was a troubling reminder of the biases at play.
Sitting back down, I gazed through the small window, taking in the blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds — a fleeting thought that offered some relief from reality.
The Permanent Move
Originally from Brazil, I was born to a mother of Japanese descent and a father with Italian ancestry. Our family relocated to Japan when I was just a year old, seeking better opportunities. What was meant to be a short stay turned into a lasting one, driven by Brazil's deteriorating economic situation and safety concerns. As my father often said, "Brazil is dangerous for someone unaware of malice."
Growing up in Japan, I felt the influence of both Brazilian and Japanese cultures. Despite this rich heritage, the experience of being a foreigner in Japan brought unique challenges. Attending a Japanese school, I often found myself bridging cultural and linguistic gaps for my family, as they primarily communicated in Portuguese and had only a basic understanding of Japanese.
From a young age, I took on the role of translator, whether at medical appointments or dealing with bureaucratic tasks. By the time I chose translating as a career, it felt like a natural progression, given my lifelong experiences.
In my job at a mobile phone shop, I served a diverse clientele, including many foreigners working in nearby factories. My translating skills were crucial in facilitating communication for customers who, like my parents, struggled with the language.
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