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I'm sure there has been some point in your life
when someone has sarcastically asked you, who do you think
you are?
Have you ever sat down and thought about you,
your family and how you contribute to society? Have you ever
addressed who you think you are?
The term Identity has become one of the most
popular buzz words of the new millennium, as communities throughout
the world particularly in Northern Ireland affiliate themselves
to a particular group or community.
So how do we identify ourselves and get a sense
of belonging in society?
Identity is an umbrella term used throughout
the social sciences for an individual's comprehension of him
or herself. The psychological idea of identity in humans is
related to self image, namely a person's view or mental model
of him or herself, usually known as their personal identity.
Sociology recognises the concept of identity
negotiation where a person has multiple identities that relate
to different aspects of their life and personality and "negotiates"
with society as to the meaning of that identity in their life.
In sociology and political science, the notion
of social identity is individuals' labeling of themselves
as members of particular groups -- such as nation, social
class, subculture, ethnicity, gender, employment, and so forth.
It is in this sense which sociologists and historians speak
of a national identity of a particular country.
Many people feel pride in their identity groups,
which furthers a sense of community and belonging. So being
a member of the Orange Order should bring with it a sense
of pride and belonging to the largest community organisation
in Northern Ireland, living out your faith and principles
within your local community and striving to make Northern
Ireland and indeed the world a better place.
Often people from outside ask why we belong
to the Order.
The answer is probably a combination of factors,
including family connections, religious outlook and a strong
sense of cultural purpose.
We have a proud and honorable tradition. The
values of our Institution are the basis of democracy in society
- civil and religious liberty for all.
In the past, our community has been prepared
to literally fight for those values - as at the Battle of
the Boyne and elsewhere.
Wearing Orange colours or going out in a band
helps us identify with others and also make a statement about
ourselves. That's who we are, not who we think we are!
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