I (Just Like You) Am American
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

I (Just Like You) Am American

Don't let fear drive you away from your rights.

16
I (Just Like You) Am American
Public Domain

I have been living in America all my life, and I was born here. Growing up, I never thought twice about my belonging here because I knew I did. My friends trusted me, they loved me, and the people around me welcomed me with open arms. Who knew that in a few years everything would change? But did they really change?

Yes, sometimes people stare at my family in wonder, maybe thinking where are we from or who are we. But then sometimes, there are some uncomfortable stares where it feels like we do not belong. How scary is it to feel like that right in your own home!

Often times, my parents would take me back to their homeland, and I would get the same stares there as if even though I speak their language and dress to fit in, I still do not belong completely. I took no heed of it because in my heart, I am American. America is my home first, then comes everything else.

To be completely honest, my parents are just as American as I am too because they have been living for over 20 years. They have done their university here, graduated with a degree, started their own business and built a house for their family. I do not see how much more American that can get. We attend all the American holiday services as well as invite our neighbors to our cultural celebrations. And you know what? Our neighbors and friends do not think twice about joining in.

I am not writing this to say something against anyone, but rather to inform that there are people like me whether they be Muslim, "brown," African American, Mexican American, Women, or anyone else. I am here to inform you that I am American and so are you. And no one can take that right from you because this is your right to be here.

I am here to tell you that people can wonder where you came from and they can even speak out and say hurtful things, but you cannot back down because this is your home. You belong here as much as they do. But do not go and fight back in violence, no do not become what they are. Show them that you are better than that, that you can be free and friendly and just as much their neighbor as anyone else who lives in America. And most importantly keep it in your mind and heart always: I am American.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

52355
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

33637
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

956412
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

181274
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments