KA Rung: Navigating the Space Between Racial Identities
For 37-year-old KA Rung, a Perth/Boorloo native with Filipina and white British heritage, the experience of growing up biracial has been defined by a painful sense of in-betweenness.
"I'm not brown enough to be in brown spaces... not light-skinned or white enough to be in white spaces."
This feeling was recently crystallized when a darker-skinned woman questioned her skin color on social media. While the incident initially sparked disappointment, it ultimately opened the door to deeper reflection—and crucial conversations with other biracial individuals.
A Fractured Cultural Connection
The complexities of Rung's identity were compounded by family dynamics. She and her sister have frequently been asked if they were truly their mother's children. Following her parents' separation when she was just 11 years old, Rung felt she was "stripped away" from her mother's culture.
This disconnection led to a period of struggle. Rung said she struggled with addiction and lacked Filipina mentorship—a void that left her searching for a sense of belonging.
Reclaiming Heritage Through Ink
A significant turning point arrived last year. Rung decided to get permanent cultural markings, an act she describes as "the biggest act of reclaiming my culture."
The impact has been profound, not just for herself but for her family. Reflecting on her sister's similar journey, Rung noted: Her sister has a collar piece that makes her see "a warrior in her."
A New Role in the Community
The path to healing has also transformed Rung into a resource for others. She noted that some parents have reached out to her for advice on raising biracial children—a sign that her personal journey is resonating widely.
Rung said the community has been supportive and that she now understands "there's a healing pathway down this route."