For my diversity paper, I chose to explore the themes of diversity in the book “The Bite of the Mango” by Mariatu Kamara and Susan McClelland. The book highlights the experiences of Mariatu, an African refugee. The story begins when Mariatu is 11 years old and living in a small village in Sierra Leone, located off the coast of Africa. Although her village frequently hears rumors of rebel attacks, nothing ever occurs. However, one fateful day while Mariatu is on her way to a neighboring village, the rebels finally strike.
The rebels abducted her and subjected her to hours of torture before ultimately severing both of her hands and releasing her. Mariatu faced numerous challenges and hardships but eventually managed to escape her country and achieve freedom. As stated by Forgenow.org, a refugee is defined as someone who, due to a legitimate fear of persecution based on their race, religion, nationality, membership in a specific social group, or political beliefs, resides outside their country of origin and is either unable or unwilling to seek protection from that country.
“Both Mariatu and her village lived in constant fear of rebel forces taking control for numerous years. However, when that dreaded day finally arrived, there was a glaring absence of assistance, even from the government. We frequently overlook the safety and freedom we enjoy every day in America, while in Africa, individuals are engaged in a constant battle for survival. Mariatu’s experience of having her hands severed was not unique; countless others suffered similar brutal disfigurements at the hands of rebel forces.”
This marked the start of Mariatu’s hardship. It was a difficult journey for her to reach the capital city, where she fought for her survival. Upon arriving in Freetown, she reunited with her cousins who had experienced the same torment as Mariatu. Following surgery and an extensive recovery period, Mariatu joined other refugees on the streets, begging for their lives. Fearful of returning home due to the possibility of another attack, Mariatu suffered from recurring nightmares that reminded her of the ordeal she had endured.
