As a Jewish, liberal, and proud supporter of the Crimson Tide, I embrace my Southern identity wholeheartedly. Growing up in a small town like Bessemer, Alabama, with a population of roughly 35,000, I was molded by the unique cultural landscape of the South. My upbringing was marked by a sense of caution instilled in me by my parents, who avoided displaying any political affiliations on their vehicles. It wasn’t until Alabama’s football team enjoyed a winning streak in the 1960s that my father, a passionate Alabama fan, put a Crimson Tide sticker on his car.
My parents were never supporters of the divisive politics of figures like George Wallace, and they openly shared their views with friends. I remember once asking, “Why not support Albert Brewer openly?” My father replied, “You never know how people might react if you draw too much attention to yourself.” This mindset might explain why I was unaware of my father’s Jewish heritage until I was seven, and why it took me until I was fifteen to attend temple with him.
In 2004, I decided to break free from my parents’ cautious approach when I purchased a sunset-colored Honda Element—an unusual choice my mother jokingly labeled as “Auburn-colored.” I adorned it with various stickers: first came a Yankee emblem, followed by Crimson Tide decals, and eventually, an Obama sticker in 2008. Living in South Carolina now, I often encounter a more progressive political climate, but some friends still have a hard time reconciling my views with traditional Southern values.
Throughout my life, I’ve pursued education in the South, earning degrees from a small Alabama college and the University of Tennessee. Currently, I teach literature and creative writing at a small Presbyterian college in South Carolina. Although I identify as Jewish, I never formally converted and my teaching position required me to be affiliated with a Christian church. I was relieved when they accepted my membership in my mother’s church as sufficient.
Over two decades, I advocated for change at my college, striving for a more inclusive policy regarding faculty religious affiliations. Finally, six years ago, we succeeded in this effort, coinciding with significant events: Obama’s inauguration, the Yankees’ last World Series win, and Alabama’s national championship under Nick Saban.
Now, I feel more Southern than ever, appreciating single-origin Bourbons, subscribing to Garden and Gun, and sharing my life with my Dixie Dingo dog, Max. This unique breed, which originated from Asia, is a fitting companion for someone like me—a blend of diverse influences and identities.
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In summary, my journey reflects the rich tapestry of Southern identity, infused with Jewish heritage and a progressive mindset. Embracing this complexity has shaped who I am today, and I find joy in both my roots and my evolving beliefs.
Keyphrase: Southern identity and Jewish heritage
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