Philly, Herpes, and Stigma: Rewriting Narratives of Identity and Belonging
If anyone could find a parallel between herpes and Philly—it’s me 🤣
In honor of supporting Philly in the Super Bowl today, I spent time reflecting on what this team and city have meant to me.
Before I even visited Philadelphia, I learned to hate it. A product of growing up near Washington and having parents who support DC area teams.
When I made the decision to move to Philly for grad school, I was told:
“Philadelphia is dirty.”
“Philadelphia is unsafe.”
“Philadelphia is grimy.”
“Philadelphia is mean.”
All comments led to some suggestion of, “Trust me—the last place you want to move is Philadelphia.”
I moved there anyway.
People hate the fans. They see a city of chaos and dirt (GREASE THE POLES).
But when I’m in Philadelphia, I feel like I’m home.
This is more than a story about a city. It’s about stigma, identity, and belonging. It’s about rewriting the narratives we inherit.
This essay is now live on my Substack, and of course GO BIRDS💚🦅✨ @philadelphiaeagles