Discussion

• Do use an MLA heading and title. Also, do include in-text citations and a works cited entry for quoted OR paraphrased material
• 250 words

In two of the week’s featured writings, authors Amy Tan and Richard Rodriquez recount in essays their experiences growing up in a household where their parents wrestle with whether to abandon traditional values to take on those of the “American” culture. Rodriquez argues that learning English and in turn ‘forgetting’ some of his own native tongue helped him feel more American. America is a land made up of immigrants. While many call America “a melting pot,” others dispute this. For example, minister and Civil Rights activist, Jesse Jackson said in a 1988 speech that ‘America is a quilt” woven of many colors and cultures.

Questions to consider:

Reflect on our discussions and your readings to date. What role might tradition and/or myth play in the varying responses to these changing demographics? What does it mean to “be” American? Is it assimilation into a set of cultural ideals?’ Will taking on these values mean that you will be considered American? How can America deal with its changing demographics?