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While the chapter delves into the many aspects of the American Dream, it still surprises me how true this can be. Many other countries in the world the he listed himself could offer the same future, if not better. However, America seems to be number one regardless. To me, this shows the reach and hold that America has on the world. People from anywhere have that dream, and it only exists in America's extravagant image. I also find a little sad since all the other countries mentioned are beautiful and can arguably treat their people better than America (though this may be controversial).

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Growing up, I saw this with many different cultures. There were many times where a friend of mine, or someone in class, couldn't do something alongside me. There was someone who wasn't allowed to drink soda, someone who couldn't wear the summer uniform during the hottest days, and someone who couldn't sleep over unless I directly talked to their family (they wouldn't say yes to her, only me). Each circumstance is different and may stem from different reasons. However, those kids were often looked at weirdly or judged for something that was kind of out of their control. A common occurrence as different cultures mix at a young age (at least when I grew up). Unfortunately , they may still get weird looks and judged as adults too.

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Going back to my hometown when I was little, I was very excited and didn't really know what to expect. However, looking back, I am able to realize how much more well off my family seems to be in America. Malaka seems to be in a similar situation, although much worse. Visiting family in another country is great, but can be overshadowed by poverty and destruction. It can cause worry, especially when going back home, knowing you're going somewhere safer and the rest are staying.

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This perception that "white > whatever" makes sense when you understand that America somewhat agrees (though there is more progress now of days). There used to be only white actors, white models, white TV characters, etc. There were poor white Americans too, but media and exposure painted a certain picture. A picture that showed white > whatever. An idea that stays with children as they grow, potentially causing mental health complications. As racist and unfortunate as the perspective is, there seems to have been progress. There are more diverse everything, so hopefully one day, this won't be the general consensus anymore.

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The family already had expectations of Malaka to become successful and American, but this shows that they wanted her to actually become as close to white as possible. An unfortunate common wish, especially with older generations, as parents today still recommend things like whitening cream. A further example of how "white > whatever" thoughts affect people. Not only does she have to adapt cultures, religion, and future careers to her families wishes, but she now has to become a full on white-American.

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Many people struggle with identity as they can be a mix of many different cultures. I've seen Malaka struggle with this a bit as she adapts to American culture as well. However, there are people, often older/maturer like this woman, who don't see it the same way. They don't imminently jump to their ethnic roots when asked "where are you from" like Malaka. This may be due to their comfort in where they live and acceptance of who they are. They aren't focused on fitting in, but rather just living where they are as they are. This is somewhat of a parallel with how Malaka's life is going.

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In this chapter, there were some struggles with mixing cultures. Especially between Malaka and Darren. However, the mixed wedding showed those differences and how they accommodated everyone. While it may not have been easy, as everyone had such different wants/needs, it was pulled together greatly. Each culture was appreciated and not left out, which I think is great and impressive. It means everyone was able to enjoy the wedding day in their own comforted way.

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There was a lot of pressure put on Malaka to become the perfect American and make everyone happy. An unrealistic expectation, but one that haunted her nonetheless. She kind of put the blame on her shoulders for the way each person in this photo was affected. While it wasn't her fault, she will always see it that way because she was raised to make everyone happy. Something many people of different cultures may experience as their friends/families want the same. An unfortunate, but common effect of pressure. Even though her family wanted what was best for her, certain unrealistic expectations shouldn't have been made.