Virtual Hybridity: Multiracial Identity in Second Life Explored

This study considers the role of multiracial identity in Second Life, and how users represent themselves and their avatars in this virtual environment and for what purposes. Multiracial representations are difficult to find in this context - namely, users with avatars and in-world groups that identify as having multiple heritages, and whose purpose is to promote ‘hybrid’ culture. Multiracial agents abound in 2D e-platforms such as Facebook, MySpace, and YouTube for a variety of reasons including social networking and education. However, 3D virtual platforms like Second Life should present additionally unique opportunities for race communities to construct multimodal discourses as a result of both synchronous and asynchronous text-based and voice communications. Yet the absence of a more pronounced community of multiracial individuals poses some interesting areas for research. Through the use of a Google Docs survey, delivered as a link to potential participants through multiple gateways, as well as real-time avatar interaction, this study considers for what reasons multiracial users frequent the Second Life landscape - for entertainment, cybersex, socialising, political activism, group membership? Preliminary results suggest that while most multiracial users consciously create avatars that also reflect human mixed-race characteristics, recognition of this identity does not extend beyond outward appearances. The results are important in establishing whether or not a virtual world like Second Life is an active site of engagement for multiracial discourse and rhetoric.