Why This Blog?

Why did I decide to start a blog titled, “America’s Cultures?” Simply put, I think the diversity of the United States is amazing and should be explored and celebrated.

From the First People of this land to the various waves of immigrants and the people who were forcibly brought here – no matter how we came to be here, the United States is now our home, together. The traditions, beliefs, languages, foods, and histories that we and our families brought with us contribute to the richness and greatness of this country.

When speaking about immigration, Ronald Reagan stated so eloquently why this mosaic of cultures that we have is so important:

“…One of the most important sources of America’s greatness. We lead the world because, unique among nations, we draw our people — our strength — from every country and every corner of the world. And by doing so we continuously renew and enrich our nation. While other countries cling to the stale past, here in America we breathe life into dreams. We create the future, and the world follows us into tomorrow. Thanks to each wave of new arrivals to this land of opportunity, we’re a nation forever young, forever bursting with energy and new ideas, and always on the cutting edge, always leading the world to the next frontier. This quality is vital to our future as a nation. If we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost.” – January 19, 1989 during his remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Unfortunately, the differences among us can also cause anger and suffering. We typically socialize with people who are very similar to ourselves. Unfortunately, this can lead us to ignorance of others, which can lead to discomfort and fear, or worse – hate and bigotry. Instead, let’s look for ways to reach out to others. Because only when we know each other do we really stop being afraid. And as we get more acquainted, we learn about ourselves and our world. And we become more informed citizens.

Martin Luther King, Jr. said, “I am convinced that men hate each other because they fear each other. They fear each other because they don’t know each other, and they don’t know each other because they don’t communicate with each other, and they don’t communicate with each other because they are separated from each other.”

I hope you enjoy this blog.