Even with immigration from different countries, a unified “Americanized” culture has formed in the United States. However, there are still unique attributes that unite people within this culture. The majority of Americans speak English and have similar clothing and food preferences. Factors like public education, global connectivity, and external influences have had a significant impact on the country’s development. Despite assimilation into one nation, immigrants still maintain their own traditions, cultures, cuisines, languages, religions, etc., which demonstrate their ongoing dedication to their individual customs.
In the United States, restaurants offer a variety of cuisines such as Italian and Chinese. The country is home to people from diverse parts of the world, including Mexicans residing in Texas. Similarly, various religious institutions like churches, synagogues, and mosques serve different faiths. Additionally, festivals and holidays specific to certain communities are observed in the US. These elements collectively demonstrate that the country embraces a multicultural society where individuals maintain their distinct cultures and traditions instead of assimilating into one homogeneous entity. Therefore, I believe that the United States can be compared to a salad bowl.
Despite the diverse range of cultures and traditions in the US, people continue to maintain their religions, traditions, cultures, foods, and dress. This is evident through various aspects of American society such as different cuisines being served in restaurants and individuals residing in neighborhoods with people from their own ethnic groups. Churches, synagogues, and mosques play a crucial role in teaching and preserving different religions and traditions. Furthermore, various groups celebrate numerous festivals and holidays to emphasize that cultures and traditions are not assimilated into a homogeneous blend. However, immigration into the US currently poses certain challenges.
The unauthorized crossing of Mexican individuals across the U.S. border is a major issue in the country. These individuals are motivated by the desire to escape poverty, find employment opportunities, and improve their standard of living. However, problems arise when they enter the U.S. without legal permission, bypassing customs and disregarding regulations. As a result, they often work without fulfilling tax obligations, which is considered unfair since all American citizens are required to pay taxes. To prevent their entry, the U.S. military is monitoring the U.S.-Mexico border. Additionally, there is an immigration concern within the United States regarding Haiti.
After the earthquake in Haiti last year, numerous Haitians are eager to migrate to the US as a means of escaping poverty and disease in their home country. There is significant public pressure on the Obama administration to extend a warm welcome to Haitians seeking refuge. However, despite initial assurances provided to them, many Haitians continue to endure extended waiting periods. Prior to the earthquake, several had already obtained approval for their immigration requests. Nonetheless, due to current restrictions regarding individuals from specific countries, they now face an even lengthier wait.
There are ongoing debates regarding these issues, but I believe that in fifty years, the US will maintain its salad bowl nature. At present, conflict arises as some individuals strive to impose their customs and practices on others globally. This is evident in the discontent felt by many Muslims towards Americans due to their disapproval of the American way of life. Moreover, numerous Mexican immigrants struggle to acquire fluency in English, which can impede the melting pot effect. Nevertheless, immigration continues to contribute to the diversification of the US, with numerous traditions, cultures, foods, and religions continually being introduced into the country. People consistently retain their own ways of life.
