Have you ever stopped to consider the weight of a hyphen? No, I’m not talking about the punctuation mark that links compound words together – I’m talking about the hyphen that connects identities, cultures, and experiences for so many Americans. The delightful Nicole Draffen, a writer, storyteller, and all-around curious person, certainly has. And let me tell you, she’s got quite the tale to share with the world.
Draffen, a hyphenated American herself, had an epiphany during her travels in England. She realized that unlike the United States, other countries don’t classify their citizens based on hyphenated identities. This ignited a spark in her, and thus, the idea for her book “Hyphened-Nation” was born.
Nicole Draffen is all about exploring the complexities of identity and how our experiences shape who we are. “Hyphened-Nation” is her latest project, which delves into the lives of people with hyphenated identities in the United States. With a good sense of humor and an insatiable curiosity, Draffen aims to use her platform to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard and to build empathy and connection across different communities.
So, what can readers expect to take away from “Hyphened-Nation”? Draffen hopes that her work will offer a deeper understanding of the experiences of hyphenated Americans. She wants people to realize the complexity and nuance involved in these experiences, rather than simply “checking the box.” Ultimately, she hopes her book will encourage more conversations about identity and belonging and prompt readers to think critically about how society categorizes people.
But wait – there’s more! Draffen isn’t stopping at “Hyphened-Nation.” She’s currently working on a new book and documentary project that further explores the experiences of those with hyphenated identities. And if you’re eager for updates on her work or interested in signing up for her newsletter, just head over to her website.
Here’s a little treat for all you Francophiles out there: “Hyphened-Nation” is now available in French! This highlights the global nature of the conversation around identity and belonging, so if you’re a French speaker or know someone who is, be sure to check it out.
The message Draffen wants to convey through her work is that our identities are complex, multifaceted, and not easily defined by simple labels or categories. By listening to each other’s stories and learning from one another, we can build a more inclusive and compassionate society. Her work, whether it’s “Hyphened-Nation” or her future projects, is dedicated to facilitating those conversations and connections.
To stay connected with Nicole Draffen and her exciting projects, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. And don’t forget to get your hands on a copy of “Hyphened-Nation,” available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other platforms.
So, my dear readers, as you go about your day and interact with the people around you, I challenge you to consider the weight of a hyphen – the stories, the complexities, and the connections it represents. Embrace the curiosity and empathy that Nicole Draffen embodies in her work, and let’s build a world where hyphens don’t divide, but connect.
You can connect with Nicole Draffen and follow her projects in the links below:
Website: https://hyphened-nation.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hyphenednation/
