For many years we have operated under this idea that we have to identify ourselves with our ethnicity. While it is important to acknowledge and embrace our heritage, this way of identification could be part of what keeps us divided. I am Chinese, Jamaican, Aztec, French, Cuban, Mexican, Mongolian, and Scottish (my mom did research). Of course, some of those are way back in my heritage, but they are still a part of me. Despite this, I am not Hispanic-American or Asian-American. I am American. Period, end of story.
In 2014, Raven-Symoné told Oprah that she did not see herself as an African-American, but rather just American. In her mind, this was just another way for people to label her or put her into a sub-category. People did not agree with this statement and bashed the actress, but I see things differently. As someone who is the epitome of the melting pot that is America, I wholeheartedly agree with her. This use of sub-labeling has contributed to the divide within our country and needs to stop.
This does not mean that I don't accept and appreciate all of the cultures that run in my veins. I eat black beans and rice on Christmas Eve, or Nochebuena as we call it. On Thanksgiving, it is not uncommon for us to have jerk chicken and have some people dancing to ska music. I've learned how to somewhat understand and speak the pig latin of Jamaica. These things are still very much part of my life and I am proud of them. But they are not my nationality.
I was born and raised in America, land of the free and home of the brave, therefore I am American. I believe in this country, no matter what troubles we may be going through. I am willing to work and fight to make a difference in this country rather than stand by and complain. I was raised to be independent, strong, and open-minded. I was raised by parents and grandparents that were immigrants but believe in America despite it not being their birth nation.
So go ahead and try to put me into a sub-group. You'll have a hard time doing it considering how many ethnicities I am. In all honesty, it would be a whole lot easier if you simply called me an American. Because that is what I am.
