As Kuwait rapidly modernizes, a quiet concern is growing: the potential erosion of its unique cultural identity, particularly among its youth. The very definition of what it means to be Kuwaiti identity is becoming increasingly fluid, leading to feelings of alienation and a disconnect from the nation’s rich past. This article explores the challenges facing Kuwait’s heritage, the influence of globalization, and how a new generation can rediscover and redefine its connection to its roots.
The Shifting Sands of Kuwaiti Identity
For generations, Kuwaiti identity has been woven into the fabric of oral tradition. Stories from grandparents, family anecdotes, and shared experiences were the primary vessels carrying cultural knowledge. However, this system is proving fragile in the face of modern life. The younger generation finds itself caught between honoring these traditions and navigating a world saturated with global influences.
Ali Jaafar, a young Kuwaiti, succinctly captures the current confusion: “We’ve begun to point fingers at each other asking who is more Kuwaiti than who. But, we don’t even know what being Kuwaiti means.” This sentiment highlights a critical issue – the lack of a clear, readily accessible, and widely accepted definition of national belonging. When the criteria for “being Kuwaiti” remain undefined and often conservatively guarded, naturally, many youth find themselves questioning their place within it.
Gatekeeping and Alienation: A Generational Divide
The perception of a rigidly defined Kuwaiti identity is a significant contributing factor to the feeling of exclusion experienced by many young people. Yousef Abu-Ghazaleh, an archivist in Kuwait, observes that, “For a lot of people, the Kuwaiti identity is a very gatekept concept. When presenting yourself, cultural sensitivities must be kept in mind.” This “gatekeeping” can manifest as subtle, or sometimes not-so-subtle, societal pressure to conform to certain expectations regarding dress, behavior, and even interests.
This pressure is further compounded by the rapid influx of global trends, particularly through social media. While exposure to different cultures can be enriching, it also introduces alternative lifestyles and values that may clash with traditional norms. The result can be a sense of rejection, as youngsters attempting to express themselves authentically may be labeled as disengaged or “not Kuwaiti enough”, leading to a fading passion for their country. Journalist Hussain Sana emphasizes the internal nature of connection, stating, “To have the right attachment to our identity, it must come from within.”
The Role of Globalization and Cultural Evolution
It’s important to acknowledge that cultural change is inevitable. Kuwait, like all nations, has always been influenced by external forces. That influence has simply accelerated with the rise of platforms like TikTok and the widespread availability of Western media, including Hollywood and Broadway productions. This isn’t necessarily negative. Culture is dynamic, and its expansion alongside a growing society is a natural process.
Heritage sites and cultural centers play a vital role in fostering an appreciation for the past while allowing for contemporary growth, but they aren’t enough. The younger generation needs to feel connected to their heritage, not just learn about it from textbooks. This requires a shift in how Kuwaiti culture is presented and engaged with.
Reclaiming Heritage Through Modern Expression
The key to preserving and strengthening Kuwaiti culture lies in finding innovative ways to connect with the youth on their terms. Instead of viewing globalization as a threat, it can be leveraged as a tool for cultural expression. Yousef Al-Manaa, a director and scriptwriter, believes in “making it a trend.” His insight is that, “If you go back to our culture, the love for our country and everything that it has given us, and make it a trend, people will begin to understand it and feel it all over again.”
This means embracing creativity and using popular platforms to showcase Kuwait’s traditions in a relatable and engaging manner. It could involve incorporating traditional music into modern remixes, showcasing local art through digital mediums, or creating content that highlights the beauty of Kuwaiti dialects and storytelling.
The Importance of Small Traditions
Preserving Kuwaiti identity isn’t solely about grand gestures or large-scale events. It’s also about cherishing the small, everyday practices that connect people to their roots. Hana Sulaiman, a fifteenth-year-old student, points out a simple yet poignant example: “I personally do not know how to respond to the blessings and words stated before food. Even if it is not too tied into Kuwaiti culture, the little things should be appreciated too.”
These seemingly insignificant phrases and customs are the building blocks of cultural memory. Actively teaching and practicing them within families and communities ensures their continuity and reinforces a sense of belonging.
Building Bridges Between Generations
Ultimately, safeguarding Kuwait’s cultural future requires a collaborative effort between the older and younger generations. The elders must be willing to embrace the evolving nature of Kuwaiti identity and recognize that belonging isn’t defined by strict adherence to tradition. The youth, in turn, must actively seek to understand and appreciate the richness of their heritage.
Laura Al-Awadi, a seventeen-year-old student, beautifully encapsulates this shared responsibility: “To be Kuwaiti is to be a community, and to have an unspoken bond with everyone around you.” This sense of community, built on mutual respect and understanding, is the foundation upon which a strong and resilient cultural identity can flourish.
Preserving Kuwait’s heritage isn’t about freezing it in time; it’s about allowing it to evolve organically while ensuring that the essence of what it means to be Kuwaiti remains vibrant and relevant for generations to come. Let’s encourage open dialogue, celebrate cultural diversity, and empower the youth to become active custodians of their nation’s unique story.
