America the land of opportunity has often been referred to as a "melting pot." The "melting pot" is a term introduced in a 1908 play by Israel Angwill (Salins 1997, p1). It is symbolic of the idea of immigrants from other countries melting together into a mixture of a more harmonious essence of people. These people being representative of all the cultures mixed into one main group. To accomplish this each culture gives up their own identity to become part of the dominate group. This can be difficult for a person born of another race unless those surrounding them are willing to look passed their outer shell, and accept them for who they are. For the Asian people this is their plight or journey to being accepted into the American version of a "tossed salad."

Acceptance by the Dominate Group

According to Erik Erikson, "Throughout the world, ethnic minority groups have struggled to maintain their cultural identities while blending into the dominant culture." (Erikson 1968). As seen so many times in history the dominate group of society tends to be the leaders. Often this creates an environment of prejudices against the minority. This can limit the success of the minority group to fully blend into the rest of society. The majority is not willing to accept the minority even if they uphold the best interest of the dominate group. The majority is viewed as being ethnocentric for comparing the minority group to their own. If the minority can shed their identity, and fully blend with the dominate groups culture, then and only then will they be accepted as equals.
The blend of ethnic groups found in America appears to be more of a "salad bowl" than a "melting pot" with each group maintaining their own identity working for the common good. This view is different from the "melting pot" concept originally intended. Does this make it possible for individual ethnic identities to coexist in America? Can these cultures create a true "salad bowl" where the ethnic groups keep their identity, and work together to unite in solidarity? When this occurs are they truly, "all for one and one for all?" Perhaps the history of America with different societal groups uniting for the common good can help clarify these questions.

Historically Speaking

When Europeans first came to America the pursuit of religious freedom and economic success was the bond which united the people. In later years there were wars and battles where different groups stood side

• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Assessing ethnic issues in today's America?
We want to hear your view. Write now!