Mariah Carey is of mixed race, with a father of African American and Afro Venezuelan descent and a mother of Irish descent. She has discussed the challenges she faced growing up as a mixed-race person, including feeling out of place in predominantly white neighborhoods and struggling with her hair. Carey has also faced criticism regarding her racial identity throughout her career. Despite these challenges, Carey is proud of her heritage and has spoken about the importance of embracing all aspects of her identity.