"A Community Timeline of Historical Events" by Prof.

Ethan Hatum

2025-01-14 20:21:59 UTC

My family's Journey to the United States is part of two significant migration waves in US history. My father's family is Jewish and immigrated from Tel Aviv, Israel, to Los Angeles in 1975, and shortly after the Vietnam War, they faced challenges adjusting to the new environment. They were carrying the weight of Holocaust survival and anti-Semitism in their transition. Meanwhile, my mom's family arrived from Cuba and Mexico in 1962 during the peak of the Civil Rights Movement. They sought better opportunities amidst the tumultuous social climate. Their stories represent resilience and the intersection of Jewish and Hispanic cultures, making our history a unique piece of America's national mosaic.

Sylvia Martinez

2025-01-14 21:55:22 UTC

My family immigrated to Southeastern Los Angeles in the year 1965. My father was only 7 years old at the time when my single grandmother came to the U.S. with her five kids. My grandfather tragically passed away in a work-related accident and my grandmother did not hesitate to move to the land of opportunity for her kids' sake. It was not an easy integration into U.S. society. It just so happened that the U.S. was undergoing the civil rights movement at the time of their arrival and the Chicano movement had just taken its shape. My dad recalled having to move several times due to safety concerns after his brothers and him were regularly targeted or beaten for being Mexican. Unfortunately, some of these instances happened at public school grounds, including my dad being stabbed in the boy's locker room. Within the same year of the incident, protests began for the demand of better education and safety for Mexican American students. My father's family kept moving throughout his youth until they finally found a safer location to settle. My mother's side immigrated to the U.S. in 1994 (Southeast Los Angeles). It was harder for my mom to integrate into the U.S. society because she was already in her mid 20's and did not speak English. On top of that, my mom arrived in 1994 pregnant with my older stepbrother in the midst of the proposition 187 (CA ballot initiative that aimed at denying undocumented immigrants access to public services/healthcare). The proposition had passed but was fortunately struck down in court after civil protests erupted by activists. My older brother was safely born in a U.S. hospital after that success. My mom recalled being called stupid and treated as such because she didn't know how to speak English when she tried to get jobs to support her child. If only they knew how smart she was in the Spanish language. Both of my parents triumphed these circumstances of the times and obtained their U.S. citizenships. I am proud of their determination, resilience, courage, and fight for a better life.

Mark Raspopov

2025-01-15 00:05:41 UTC

My family immigrated to the US in September 2022 when my father got a job there. Before this immigration, my parents immigrated to Canada separately, as they met and got married there. Both of my parents are from working class families and were raised in the Soviet Union. My mother was born in Ukraine and my father in Belarus. He never saw his father and was only raised by his mother. My mother lost her father when she was a student at university. Both of my parents graduated from universities. The Soviet Union was a very tough time for the people who lived there because there was no freedom of speech, and people were killed by the KGB because of that. When the Soviet Union collapsed, all 15 republics became independent countries in different years. On August 24th, 1991, Ukraine gained its independence. Since then, Russia wanted to take Ukraine back or at least some parts of it. In March 2014, Crimea was annexed by Russia. In February 2022, the Russian invasion on Ukraine began. My father immigrated from Belarus in 1999 and my mother immigrated from Ukraine at the beginning of 2003 to Canada for a better life. At the beginning, their lives were very tough, as it was difficult for them to find good jobs with good pay, especially for my mom because she didn’t know English at all (her second language at school and university was German). My mother worked as a cleaner, being a cardiologist from Ukraine. Then, my parents met and got married. My brother was born on December 21st, 2003, and I was born on January 25th, 2011. My parents lived around 20 years in Canada before they immigrated to the US along with me. We immigrated to the US because my father lost his job in Canada, and found a new one in the US in the Waters company in Central US. He is a chemist and works with spectrometers. I started Creekside Middle School in Carmel, Indiana and lived there for 9 months before I applied to Cal State LA through the Early Entrance Program and was accepted at the age of 12. So, my mother and I had to move to Los Angeles. We have been living here for one and a half years. However, my brother is still in Canada, studying at University of Waterloo; he is in his last year, and will hopefully come to Cal State LA for his Master’s degree. We are Canadian citizens and US permanent residents (we have Green Cards). I am very proud of my parents since they did everything they could to give their children a better life than they had when they were kids.

Eric Mendez

2025-01-15 06:42:41 UTC

My father arrived in the US in 1972 and initially worked as a ranch hand and cowboy in Texas. After five successful years, he moved to Los Angeles to seek new opportunities. He ended up in Hollywood, where he began his journey as a pot washer at Clifton’s Cafeteria. Shortly afterward, the chef retired and appointed my dad as the supervising chef in charge of the entire kitchen. In 1979, my mom arrived in the US and settled in Hollywood, where her sister lived, which was conveniently located next to where my dad lived which is how they met. In 1982, they returned to Mexico, where my dad married my mom. After they came back to the US, they had my older brother in 1985, and in 1987, they bought their first house in South Central Los Angeles. I was born in 1988, and my sister followed in 1990. During this time, my parents frequently traveled back and forth to Mexico without legal documentation, as they were not US citizens. One day, my dad decided to take a risk on a house he believed he could repair himself. They bought it, renovated it, and sold it. At the height of their real estate investments, my parents owned 11 houses, including one in my mother’s hometown of Guadalajara. Both of my parents faced significant discrimination, and despite being undocumented and having little formal education, they managed to achieve so much. My dad would often tell us that in the 1980s, the term "Chicano" was at its peak popularity, with many Mexicans either adopting the label or being called it. However, he was never fond of the word. He proudly identified as "Mexican" and always referred to us as Mexican, even though my siblings and I considered ourselves Chicanos. My mother became a U.S. citizen in 1995 and enrolled in adult school at Evans near downtown Los Angeles, but she never really found something that truly interested her until she began doing real estate. Today, my older brother is a medical doctor, my younger sister is a research lab assistant at a local laboratory, and I work at a school with aspirations of becoming a school counselor.

Joshua Hanscom

2025-01-15 21:13:26 UTC

While I’m unsure to the exact immigration of my biological family, I do know that the majority of my foster family immigrated over to the United States sometime in the early 1970’s. During this time, there was a great need for workers in America, especially California. With many immigrants arriving around this time, controversy of Mexican immigration grew. My family was able to carve out a life in the Ontario area and now many of them are second-time homeowners, with large portions of my family living in the same neighborhoods. They arrived at a time when hard work needed to be done and the growth of our family reflects that.

Richard Aprato

2025-01-16 00:18:27 UTC

As a young man, my grandpa Patricio Cabello grew up in Monterey Mexico and started wielding pipelines at the age of 16. During this time, he struggled while owning his skill. However, eventually he would obtain work through an oil refinery company known as PEMEX as an oil pipe wielder. After a while, he realized that he wanted to pursue the American Dream. Therefore, he immigrated to the U.S. in 1958 and moved to McAllen Texas. Although he had no job at first, and despite his limited English, eventually he would find work at small independent oil refineries due to his excelled skill. After a while he realized that he did not like Texas, for one he did not like the environment itself, and more importantly at this time in U.S. history, it was very racist, which he encountered several times. Therefore, he moved to California and found work at independent oil refineries. In the early 80’s he got the opportunity to help build infrastructures of offshore oil rigs where he would go into work for 2 weeks and be off for one. Eventually, he became an independent wielding contractor where he would refit and repair pipes on oil rigs. And finally, he would retire in the early 2000’s, thus was able to live the American Dream.

Kali Tilton

2025-01-16 05:23:04 UTC

I’m not sure of the exact year my family first immigrated to the US but it was sometime in the 1750’s when they came from County Down, Northern Ireland to the Appalachian Mountains in Pennsylvania. There isn’t much information documented from that far back and none online, but a cousin went to County Down a decade ago and found records we believe are of my family. What we know is that about a hundred or so years prior to the Mcbrear family leaving Ireland they had immigrated there from Dumfries, Scotland, likely fleeing famine. During the 1700’s many Scots-Irish left Ireland for the US in hopes of freedom from religious persecution and cheap land. Although we don't know the exact reason why my family left, I would assume it to be the same. My family were coal miners until the early 1900’s, moving from coal mine to coal mine as they made their way from Pennsylvania to Ohio where I’m from. Since I don’t have pictures from that far back the picture I added is of me, my parents, and my sister.

Ingrid D

2025-01-16 07:54:57 UTC

My father had to migrate from El Salvador to South Los Angeles in 2000, just before I was born, with the expectation of providing a better future for our family. He worked hard every day, accepting any job that came his way, always working long, hard hours in harsh physical conditions, because he did not know how to speak English and had no family in this country to support him. He planned to return to us as soon as possible, but unfortunately, in 2004 he became seriously ill and needed a kidney transplant; for that reason my mother had to make the difficult decision to migrate to the United States, to take care of my father who was sick and alone in this country, leaving me with our family when I was barely 4 years old. Both went through many challenges such as few job opportunities due to their immigration status, difficulty accessing health care, not speaking English, not having job stability, racist and xenophobic comments, and building a new life that they found on foreign soil. Today, both have learned a lot and have managed to establish themselves in this country, making it their home, and mine, since they allowed me to move to this city and study without going through the same difficulties they had to face.

Eric Castellon

2025-01-17 00:37:26 UTC

Being of a mixed background, the time and circumstances in which my family came to the United States differ between both sides. On my mother’s side, our family’s history in the U.S. dates back to colonial times. We are related to Eli Whitney, the inventor of the cotton gin, who was born in Massachusetts before the U.S. gained independence. This connection ties us to early American history and the establishment of the nation.

On my father’s side, I am first-generation. My father immigrated from Nicaragua to the U.S. in the late 1970s, seeking a new life amid the political turmoil in his home country. He initially settled in Philadelphia before moving to Los Angeles, where he met my mother at a Nicaraguan community event. At the time, my mother was deeply passionate about Nicaraguan politics, and my father, a proud Sandinista, shared her commitment to the cause. This was during Ronald Reagan’s presidency, a period marked by the Iran-Contra Scandal—a controversial U.S. operation that sold arms to Iran to fund the Contras, counterrevolutionaries opposing the Sandinistas in Nicaragua.

Vanessa Cruz

2025-01-17 05:28:27 UTC

From both my mother's and father's sides, the story of how my great-grandparents got here is a bit unclear. The best timeline in my family tree is about the backgrounds through my father's side. My father's mom was born here and her parents grew up and came over to America but she never was close to her mother and father and stories of their journey were lost. But my father's father, my grandfather, has always had stories to tell us. My grandfather was born in 1922, to my great-grandfather who had traveled over to America from Mexico living in Douglas, AZ. He had traveled over from Mexico with his wife and had started a family in the small town of Douglas until they decided to move up to California in the greater Los Angeles area, opening up a shoe store, soon after getting to California, with the great depression happening, and the culture clash between being a Latin American owning a small business. My great-grandfather passed away just when my grandfather was 10 years old. Since then my grandfather grew up fast, providing for him, his two sisters, and his mother. Learning the racial struggles and barriers he would have to overcome to make it in this world. He was smart and wanted his kids, my father, aunt, and uncle to have successful and easy lives, even naming them simple white names so they would not be looked down on because of their heritage like he was. (For example, my father's name is Carl) My grandfather over many years was able to own 5 properties in the area we live in now, becoming a success for his father before him. Making a name for the Cruz family, name all these years, and leaving a legacy to live up to and learn from as building the American dream but remembering our Mexican heritage and not being afraid to hide from it like my father, my grandfather, and my great-grandfather.

2025-01-17 23:44:27 UTC

My grandpa on my mom's side was the first out of my family to reach the United States. He crossed the Rio Grande and proceeded to build a foundation so my grandma, my mom, and her 3 other siblings could have a place to stay. They ended up immigrating here in the 80's and settled down in Whittier, CA. This was during the "Chicano Movement". My mom remembers experiencing a lot of discrimination during this time due to her heavy accent, skin color, etc. After Graduating from La Serna High School. While my grandma was building her business; my mom and her 3 siblings moved to Canada where she met my dad. From sunny California to freezing cold Toronto. My dad had left Chile when he was 22 years old in '85. He moved in order to support his Mom and siblings. He would send money back to Chile every week for bills and groceries. He worked in a rubber factory then worked his way up to an iron worker. He helped build the skyscrapers we see today in Toronto and Vancouver. My parents had my brother in '99 in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada; then they had me in '03. My mom decided to go back to California and help my grandma with her business. Here my mom attended college, got her degree, and took over my grandma's business. I take my family as my biggest motivators. Seeing what they did with so little pushes me farther and farther everyday.

Michelle Perez

2025-01-18 00:53:22 UTC

My grandma grew up in Michoacán, Mexico and her integration into the U.S. society was during the 1970’s. In Mexico, she lived with her aunt and grew up among her cousins. She met my grandpa who was from Puerto Rico visiting family in Mexico. Together they went to Los Angeles to earn financial stability and obtain opportunities. This timeline relates to U.S. society and the perspective on class differences. My grandma worked at a sewing factory and my grandpa did manual labor. They raised 6 kids in the city of Los Angeles. My grandpa was bilingual but my grandma learned English through a local Elementary school. She learned English and obtained her citizenship which is one of her greatest accomplishments that she mentions to this day. Although I didn’t get to meet my grandpa, my mom reminisces about his culture and I learn more everyday about his identity.

Alejandra Cornejo

2025-01-18 02:08:39 UTC

My family’s journey to the U.S. started back in the 1980s when my grandmother was the first to come here from El Salvador. Even though we don’t stay in touch with her anymore, her decision to leave everything behind and take that leap really set the foundation for where we are today.

A couple of years ago, my mom and I followed in her footsteps, looking for new opportunities and a fresh start. Our story feels like a small piece of the larger history of Latin American migration during that late 2000's when so many families were seeking better futures despite the challenges that we were faced back in our country. It’s a journey that’s shaped who we are and how we’ve found our place here.

Brianna Zuniga

2025-01-18 02:09:44 UTC

My grandpa from my mom's side came to the United States in 1963, this would have made him only ten years old. He came from Mexico and left behind his mother and three sisters. He met my grandma when he was 18. My grandma was from Texas, but moved to Bakersfield and later on LA where they met. During the time my grandpa came here, there was several civil rights movements going on, one of them being the chicano civil rights movement. They had five kids together one of them being my mom. My mom met my father in church and he too came to the US from Mexico. They had three kids together, one of them being me. This mixed background allows me to the see the struggles those before had to endure compared to the ones we are facing now.

Juan Martinez

2025-01-18 03:07:34 UTC

My parents both came from Durango Mexico in the late 80s and early 90s to the US to seek better opportunities for my sister and I. Our family settled in the Bay Area of California where my sister and I were born. My parents choice to immigrate her was during a period in California where there was an increase of Mexican immigrants coming to California. The Chicano movement also began to uplift the voices of Chicanos in central LA. There was also a larger percentage of Latino Voters in California.

Susan Melara

2025-01-18 07:24:37 UTC

My grandma from my dad’s side immigrated to the U.S I believe in the early 1980’s from El Salvador. El Salvador was experiencing a civil war at that time, filling the streets with a lot violence and crime. She did not want that for her, my dad, and my aunt and uncle, so she chose to come to the U.S for a better life for all of them. Many Salvadoran’s like my grandma at the time were attempting to flee the country because of the war and come to the U.S. This contributed to the large increase of immigration and immigration communities here. Once arriving to the U.S she settled in Los Angeles where she connected with many other Latino immigrants with similar stories, especially at a church she attended to. She soon began to work as a housekeeper for a wealthy lady and her husband who were doctors. My grandma worked hard to send money back to El Salvador for her children and she became very loyal to the lady who grew a liking for my grandma. The lady helped her learn English and I believe eventually help her gain legal residency through the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986. The lady soon after also helped her bring my dad, aunt, and uncle to the U.S as well. Finally reunited with them, my grandma continued to work for the lady, continued to learn and improve her English, and enrolled my dad, aunt, and uncle into schools in LA.

Diego Bardales

2025-01-18 08:32:19 UTC

My mother's parents came to the US from Chihuahua, Mexico in 1955 and settled in Los Feliz. My grandmother was the oldest of 6 and raised her siblings while her mother worked and my grandfather dropped out of school in 6th grade in order to help with the bills in his family. They moved to Alhambra in 1963 where they would stay and raise 5 beautiful children. During this time my grandfather worked at the Santa Anita Racetrack and my grandmother opened up a hair salon. During this time the civil rights movement was happening as well as the Vietnam War which my uncle fought in. My mother was the only one who graduated college and later became a teacher. She graduated with a BA in Chicano Studies which is partially why I chose this class and why I chose to talk about her and her side of the family.

Ramon Ocampo

2025-01-19 05:18:06 UTC

My dad came to the US in 1979 when he was 18. He's from Talpa de Allende in Jalisco, Mexico. He sold all his belongings in Mexico and set off on his journey into the US. He was granted amnesty by his favorite president, Ronald Reagan, and settled down here, eventually meeting my mom who crossed the border in 1996. My mom's brother paid for her crossing, while my dad just banded with some other Mexicans he met on the way to cross, nearly drowning and losing a finger in the process. My mom is from Tarimoro in Guanajuato, Mexico. She crossed into the US much later than my dad, and was not 18, like he was. My dad was nearly deported many, many times before getting amnesty, while my mom actually never experienced a close call. My tio Martin, who is essentially like my 2nd father, crossed into the US in 1986, at age 16. He's my mom's brother, so he's also from Guanajuato, Mexico. My mom would send her entire paycheck to her parents, my grandparents. My dad would send all of his paycheck to his sister who was sick in Talpa. My uncle, who was essentially by himself here, with no family or money just focused on surviving. My dad was caught up in "Fernandomania", caused by the legendary Dodger southpaw Fernando Valenzuela. He became an enormous baseball fan because of him, and found comfort in the sport. My uncle found comfort in the other dominant 80's LA sports team, the Lakers. My uncle was enthralled by the flashy play of the Showtime Lakers from the 80s. My uncle and dad incorporated themselves quickly into American life, finding comfort and interests in American sports. All 3, have lived in East Los Angeles since their arrival. My mom certainly struggled, but my dad and uncle were truly fighting for their lives out here. These two mojados living off of Pan Bimbo and bologna with nothing but lint in their wallet pulled through.

Angel Vazquez

2025-01-19 06:05:13 UTC

My mom and dad immigrated to the United States during the early 1980s, when Ronald Reagan was president. They initially met in Escondido, California, before moving to Lake Elsinore around 1983, where they worked hard to build a life for our family. This was a time of significant economic and political change in the U.S., including debates around immigration policy and the rise of conservative values. Despite challenges, my parents persevered, laying the foundation for future generations. Their story reflects the resilience of immigrant families striving for the American Dream during a transformative period in U.S. history.

Jonathan Morales

2025-01-19 06:54:58 UTC

My mother and her side of the family are from El Salvador and left the country in 1980 to immigrate for a better life in the U.S. They immigrated to Los Angeles, where at the time it was my mother, aunt, uncle, grandma, and grandpa. They set up to make a living in the area. My father also immigrated to the U.S. from Mexico to also make a better life for himself because he was on his own at the time. Being on his own at a young age and making a living in Los Angeles as a young adult at the time by working at a candy factory, where he met my mother, who also was working there. They both got together and took care of my sister (who was young at the time) and a few years later my parents had my brother (who was young at the time as well) and years later in 2005 my grandfather passed a couple months before I was born. It was just the remaining members of my mother's side of the family left with my siblings and parents who lived in an apartment but it was sooner or later that my parents decided to look for a house where we could all live in and so they did. Over the years my aunt and uncle had families of their own and so did my sister and brother. Where they expanded the members of my family and spread the culture my parents came from and brought those traditions to holidays and every now and then on weeks.

Dario Enriquez

2025-03-11 05:18:15 UTC

My grandpa left his family in Mexico in the 1980s to come to America and search for better opportunities. Him and my grandma had financial struggles and wanted to find a way to earn more money. It wasn't easy for my grandpa to leave since his three kids were all less than 6 years old. For several years, my dad remembers growing up without a father and would question whether he was real since the only form of communication back then was letter writing. My grandpa started off with simple jobs such as sweeping parking lots and deep cleaning restaurants. Him and my grandma worked well with each other and my grandma did a good job at managing the money that was sent to Mexico. Eventually, he missed his family a lot and returned to Mexico. After about a year, he realized that the opportunities in America were better and he went through the difficult process of crossing the boarder once again. One of my grandma's brothers recently started a business here in the San Fernando Valley, so he asked my grandpa to join him. After several years of working in this business, my grandma's brother decided that he wanted to give up this business since he already had a significant source of financial income. Throughout all those years of my grandpa working, he had enough saved to start his own business. Thankfully, my grandpa earned my grandma's brother's trust and he inherited this business. My grandpa eventually brought my grandma, dad, and my dad's sisters to America to work this business with him. Thanks to my grandpa, my dad and my Tias were able to get U.S. citizenship and expand the family with their own kids. My grandpa now has 14 grandkids and we're all very close. We all live in the same neighborhood and get together on holidays and celebrate occasions as a large group. I believe that this is overall a blessing for us to be here especially when Mexican-American culture struggled with immigration issues during the time that my grandparents immigrated to America.

Alex Padilla

ap5704700 — 2025-03-12 01:22:59 UTC

I think being an American is living in America despite your status here, eating our types of foods and if you love it then you love it and if you don’t, you don’t, you can also share each others values and beliefs. I think anyone who is born here, or has lived experiences, or have cultural ties can be considered American.

Marion Burgess

marionpburgess2 — 2025-03-12 03:18:56 UTC

I grew up in a tiny country called Belize, my country borders Guatemala and Mexio. We have less than half a million people currently in Belize but it was a great life. I remember my grandma never worked a day in her life. It was my grandpa's job to go work and pay the bills. My grandma's job was the keep the house and take care of the children (my mom, uncles and aunties) I had a feeling of freedom as a child. There were no rules, just get home before the sky turns dark, Have some food and go to bed. The culture was very relaxed and free. It felt like heaven.

Darwin Argueta

2025-03-14 21:32:06 UTC

My Grandma (my mom's mom) gave birth to 3 of her kids in the US, but raised them in Oaxaca Mexico. In the mid 1980s, they migrated to the US, where they would live an easier life, and get a better education. My dad and his side of the family were born in Guatemala. In the mid 1980s, they also migrated to the US. Both my parents migrated to Los Angeles, where they would go to the same high school, get together, graduate later, then live together. My parents didn't go to college because they had my sister, and they didn't have the money for college, only my sister. They worked very hard to provide for her, and so she can have an easy life. When I was born, my dad was sent to Mexico, because he didn't have a green card, so when I was a lot younger, we had to drive to the border to see my dad. When I was 5 years old, my dad got his green card and spent the majority of his time with me. My family worked very hard for not just us but for the next generation to have better lives in the future.

2025-03-18 21:23:07 UTC

I think "American" is a culture where we see a lot of foods that are normalized as pizza, hamburgers, and hotdogs, but it can also be a community of different cultures that appreciate each other as we all come to America for the "American Dream" in hopes of living better lives and futures for ourselves and future families.

Jesus Martinez

2025-03-19 04:13:29 UTC

An “American” is someone who was born in North and South America. People who are born in the United States claim to be “American” due to their common patriotism. In the US, it’s normal to brag about being a true patriot by describing how amazing the United States is. Little do people know that people outside of the US are actually “Americans” because we have to American continents which are North and South. If you live in Latin America, you are still an “American”. No matter what cultures or food you eat in North or South America, you are still part of the “American” group. Most American foods were made by immigrants such as the Germans who created hamburgers and hot dogs.

Hideka Takamura

2025-03-20 19:47:02 UTC

My definition of "American" is to keep developing and have freedom. My family does not live in the States, so there is no integration into US society as a family based on historical timelines, honestly. However, my older sister went to another university in the States, which totally brought new cultural aspects to my family. This is because our family had few opportunities to experience other cultures in Japan. Even though it was indirect learning, it was a really big and important chance for my family to get into an unfamiliar environment. That is one reason I chose to study abroad by myself.

CLS 1500-01 Carlos Recinos

2025-03-24 18:29:53 UTC

To be "American" can be many different things, from enjoying the food to living in the country to upholding the values of democracy, the vote, free speech, and various other liberties.

Ericka Elizalde (cls 1500-09)

2025-03-24 22:52:08 UTC

For me, an American is someone with different cultural backgrounds that have rights and freedom. Being an American means having equality and opportunities that bring people together, no matter their background. It’s a place where people can chase their goals and strive for personal growth ; An American can contribute to something bigger and make a difference for themselves and their community.

Macario Cabrera (CLS 1500-04)

2025-03-25 19:30:57 UTC

To be "American" can mean many different things for many different people. People come to America to start over, to have a new life for themselves and their future families. It's the land of opportunities and freedom. Individuals find America to be a place where they can be themselves and especially make a new living.

Melany Salinas

2025-03-26 00:46:05 UTC

To me, "American" is a very important Country in terms of diversity, where you can find all kinds of food. I think that many can find a place that they feel comfortable and related to. even though there is a lot of discrimination, people still enjoy learning about different cultures and their unique tastes in food.

Breysen Romero CLS

2025-03-26 04:19:25 UTC

To be "American" is the idea that you can understand any that speaks english. English has been so normalized in the US that if you dont speak english they automatically think you are not "American".

Guadalupe Ortega CLS 1500-04

2025-03-26 04:34:49 UTC

When I think of "American" I think of cowboys, Texas, and the American flag. However, it had changed for me at least it stayed with the American dream and crossed over for a better life.

2025-03-26 07:13:59 UTC

"American" is any of the different cultures that exist in the US. America is a hotspot for many different cultures to intersect and meet. I do not think any specific culture is "American". All cultures are part of what it means to be American

Alizey Olivares

2025-03-26 17:16:58 UTC

To me, "American" can be the culture, customs, and values associated with the United States. It gives opportunities and a place people migrate from in order for a better life. It represents who you are and what you will be.

Emiliano Mejia (CLS 1500-01)

2025-03-26 20:03:52 UTC

To me, "American" is different cultures intersecting and people sharing elements from their own culture. America is a diverse country, which I think is one of its strengths, and no one is more or less American than anyone else.

Rosselyn Paredes

2025-03-27 09:33:17 UTC

To me, "America" is a land of diversity, opportunity, and freedom. It's a place where people from different backgrounds come together to create something new and where dreams can be pursued. It represents the chance to build a future and make a mark, regardless of where you come from.

2025-03-27 17:22:08 UTC

Being "american" is being born in the US, but there is another sense to it. Many other cultures see it as a privilege to be able to have freedom and endless opportunities. In which many do migrate to the US to build a better future for themselves, and being able to provide for their families, so it a place filled with diversity and love.

Matthew Guzman (CLS 1500-1)

2025-03-28 17:35:49 UTC

To be an "American" it means to be part of a nation which has opportunity to get you far. America is a melting pot and has many different looking people. They all being their own cultures and values which get shared throughout the country.

Taesja Paopao

2025-03-28 23:10:07 UTC

What I think being an American means living here no matter what ethnic backgrounds we come from, and coming together. I think America does have a lot of opportunities and diversity.

My mom was born and raised here. My dad however was born in American Samoa. He moved here when he was about 10 years old, still only speaking Samoan with him and his family. Other aunts, uncles, and his biological parents had moved here already because of joining the military, which is how my dad came here with the rest of his family.

Andy Ponce(CLS 1500-04)

2025-03-29 03:11:06 UTC

I think the term American means Freedom and a person who has more opportunities than others to succeed. I feel it can also mean togetherness since many cultures and people come together and live here in America.

Carlos Bautista

2025-03-30 00:21:06 UTC

American can mean many things to different people because the U.S is made up of different cultures, but for me it means freedom, opportunities, diversity and cultures form different backgrounds.

Karen Garcia

2025-03-30 00:37:46 UTC

To be American means diversity different cultures and values. It is a land of opportunities and freedom. I think to each their own American can mean different things, but America is made up of all the different cultures.

Alex Alvarez (CLS 1500-04)

2025-03-30 06:22:49 UTC

I believe being American is being proud of who you are and your roots, because the U.S. is a society with so many different blends and mixes of diversity. My grandmother and grandfather moved to California from Mexico some time in the 20th century and have lived here for more than 60 years. They came here just like all the other immigrants: for grandiose opportunity and freedom. I don't know too much about them, but I know they worked their butts off, my grandfather became a long-time electrician who worked on the oldest of televisions, and my grandmother was a computer -- not to be confused with the computers we currently have. Computers back then were people, often women in engineering who would do insane calculations by hand and in their mind. Now fast forward, televisions are 60 inch flat screen smart televisions and computers have been replaced by machine computers and those same computers back then managed to land rockets on the moon.

Ruben Flores

2025-03-30 06:22:57 UTC

What is it to be an "American?" I believe it to be as nicely put in the constitution. To have Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. being an American means to have a nice life, free to do what you want, whatever that could make you happy. That is what being an American is.

Cesar Martinez

2025-03-30 06:27:46 UTC

I believe being American is taking pride in the country you were born in and embracing the rights you have that were written in the Constitution. I also think its having this dream of becoming great as America is known for the many opportunities within the country not only being financially successful but pursing Happiness in the Freedom you have.

Skylar Seo

2025-03-30 07:41:58 UTC

I believe being an American is more than just being a citizen of the US. Since US has a diverse population, as an American, living within the diversity and being able to live in harmony with others and embracing everyone's difference is what makes you an American. America is created through the combination of various cultures and people from all over the world. Learning to adjust and learn about diversity within the society and acquiring the freedom and opportunities that America gives us is what makes Americans special.

Janeth Juarez

2025-03-30 07:46:12 UTC

Paloma Hermosillo

2025-03-30 08:11:42 UTC

My parents grew up in Guadalajara but had to move to the U.S. due to personal reasons and lack of funds. They did not want my brothers and I to live in a sad area where, at the time, had no schools or work close to their home. Eventually in the 1980s, they applied for U.S. citizenship after a few months of immigrating from Mexico as they had family who lived in the States. My mom didn’t know any English while my dad knew fair amount to pass receive the citizenship while my mom had to keep trying.

Ashley Frias

2025-03-30 09:13:58 UTC

My parents are from Mexico Guatemala. In the 2000’s, my parents went to move in the U.S to make my sisters and I to have better education and life. Both my parents worked really hard to make money to have our house, cars, and bring food on the table. My parents also learned to talk and understand the english language. Me and my sisters one day wanted to repay our parents, everything they both done and sacrificed for us to have a better life.

Brandon Tum

2025-03-30 09:25:30 UTC

Both my parents are from Guatemala they grew up there and then decided to come to the US and on the way here that's when they met. Both my parents had to live with multiple people in one apartment and that made it hard on them. At some point, they didn't have enough money to pay the rent and their own people kicked them out. Thankfully we have a better life but that still doesn't change that both my parents could be deported and that is something that they both fear like any other undocumented parents.

Monserrat Aguilar (CLS 1500-09)

2025-03-30 17:55:55 UTC

"American" is hard to define, because America is so many different things at once. To me, American culture is a mix of all the people that have shared pieces of their mother culture to create something new. American should mean opportunity, respect, and reverence to the many people who have come to make a home here, and who have built America and American cultures off their backs.

Ann Stolarov

2025-03-30 19:09:25 UTC

My parents came to this country as "refugees" because they were Jewish people leaving Russia in the 1980s and 1990s. They came here in hopes of a better life. When They first came here, they lived in a little area of Hollywood that had a huge Russian community. Since they came here as Jewish refugees, they were able to get a green card very quickly. My mom when to CSUN and learned English mainly by watching "I Love Lucy." My dad already had a degree when he came here, but before he met my mom, he went back to school to get a different degree in computer programming. They met because they were set up on a blind date by some mutual friends and it is always funny to hear the story. Apparently, my dad picked up his friends and they started giving him directions, they drove for a few minutes until the roads started looking familiar, then they had him stop, and when he looked where they had arrived, it was his apartment building. My parents had been living in the same building just a few floors apart.

Bryant Prudente

2025-03-30 19:39:44 UTC

American especially in this generation has so many different meanings. It doesn't just single out one specific culture. From Asian culture to hispanic which is where I fall into. With the insane amount of cultures that are in America there is no way to define American culture. American is freedom to think what you want and respecting other people's right to do so as well. That is how we can coexist with the different amounts of culture that live here.

Brady Cerrato

2025-03-30 20:18:57 UTC

American is to be anything. A country built of many different cultures and identities I believe that to be American is to be whatever you want to be. Despite what others try to say america is, the fact is that this country is what is today based upon the hardwork of people from many different cultures and races. Which is why to be american is to be anything you want to be.

Allison Jimenez

2025-03-30 21:03:42 UTC

Being American in my opinion doesn't really have a set definition. Many people of different cultures reside here, creating a melting pot of these cultures. America is made up of so many different people, sharing these cultures and creating their own community of these shared cultures. Either migrating here in hopes of living a better life or have been living here your whole life, being American can be anything.

Erick Hernandez

2025-03-30 21:13:21 UTC

"American" to me is not a single identity. It’s shaped by a blend of different cultures, experiences, and histories. It can mean many things to different people depending on their perspective and background. To be American is to think freely and practice your culture with no fear of being judged. Being American means you have the freedom to choose what to do with your life, and what experiences you want to have.

maldini simic

2025-03-30 22:02:30 UTC

My family does not live in the US. Neither do I, I am only here to play sport and to get my degree.

We don't fit into any US timeline...

To be American is to believe in freedom. That is the origin of America after all.

All of the states represent different cultures within the country, as I have travelled to and from different states, I notice cultural differences. For example, I found the men to be very polite in Georgia, they would always hold the door, use their manners and would treat me like a lady. When I came to California it was the complete opposite. Different states have different standards of living, and thats what makes this country so interesting

Claudia naranjo

2025-03-30 22:04:06 UTC

Miguel Castillo

2025-03-30 22:29:48 UTC

To me being “American” means being part of a mix of different cultures, languages, and traditions. It’s not just one look, one type of food or one story. Being American is about being proud of where you come from but also open to learning and accepting others too.

2025-03-30 22:50:20 UTC

American is being born in the US, but being American doesn’t mean everyone is from the same culture. I think being American is being part of a country with the most diverse population of people making everyone different and unique.

Emiliana Bio

2025-03-30 23:46:52 UTC

"American" is a blend of diverse cultures, backgrounds, and stories coming together to create a unique and evolving identity. My family’s journey to America is a reflection of this spirit. My relatives from both El Salvador and the Philippines came to America seeking a better life, driven by the dream of achieving success and having opportunities that might not have been available to them in their home countries. They embraced the idea of the American Dream, hoping for a future where they could pursue their goals and create a new life full of possibility.

Ivan Manzanilla

2025-03-31 00:18:43 UTC

I think that this type of image can be represent the idea of American. It is a mix of different cultures and their traditional foods. This image shows people from different backgrounds eating a meal together, which is reflecting the multicultural nature of America.

Alex Melendez

2025-03-31 01:13:51 UTC

To me " American" means to live In America and actively contribute to the society and be involved in culture. To me you don't have to be born in America to truly be "American", America should be a home for everyone as long as they want it to be their home and embrace it.

Bryan Montes

2025-03-31 01:51:59 UTC

I think the word “American" can have multiple different meanings. “American” to me is someone that has identified themselves with the values and ways that are associated with the US but also someone who has mixed their roots to those of the US.

2025-03-31 01:56:41 UTC

Izel Vazquez

2025-03-31 03:24:23 UTC

American is used to describe a person, culture, or food related to the United States. There is no one definition to describe someone who is American, as America is a combination of cultures and identities.

Aimee Sanchez

2025-03-31 04:26:53 UTC

American means a diversity of people from different cultural backgrounds. There is no set face to being American as there are many people who are American but they are all different. That's why I think being American means residing in America and I don't think there is a set culture in America because it is so diverse.

Pedro Avila

2025-03-31 04:31:30 UTC

I think America is being strong together, fighting for one another to lift each other up when times are tough, to go through struggles together in order come out on top. Together we can be victorious.

Fabian Hernandez

2025-03-31 04:42:34 UTC

"American" can mean many things because the U.S. is a diverse country with people from different backgrounds. It can refer to the culture, values, traditions, and ways of life that have developed in the U.S. over time. Some people see "American" as representing freedom, opportunity, and diversity. Others may think of things like democracy, pop culture, fast food, or sports like baseball and football. Since the U.S. is made up of many cultures, what is considered "American" can change depending on who you ask.

Anabel Escareno

2025-03-31 04:44:06 UTC

America is described to be the land of hope and freedom. Its know as the land of hope and due to the fact that its supposedly allows opportunities for everyone. America is one of the most diverse places to exist and regardless everyone who lives here is "American" ijn their own way because there’s really no denying who is and who isn’t American if we are all human. American is one word that could have numerous meanings as each individual has their own version of how they would describe it .

Erik Rodriguez

2025-03-31 05:13:39 UTC

My definition of "American" is someone who strives for a better life and values freedom, hard work, and opportunity. Many people like my parents came here to have the opportunity to have a better life for themselves and their families. My parents came here during the '90s and overtime they learned some English and applied for their green cards.

Summer Roybal

2025-03-31 05:22:24 UTC

This image accurately represents America because as I mentioned earlier, the U.S. is a multi-cultural melting pot. America celebrates and represents various cultures from around the world. Here, we have the freedom to embrace our historical family traditions and share with the rest of the country. America represents liberty and unity expressed through our uniqueness and diversity.

Alondra Flores

aflore424 — 2025-03-31 05:34:25 UTC

Shayla Gonzalez

2025-03-31 05:38:02 UTC

Between what is American and being American are two different things, so American is anything that has to do with the United States. Some may say it’s a melting pot and very diverse. Many different cultures with new opportunities and freedom.

Luis Arias

2025-03-31 05:47:02 UTC

This image can represent the idea of American because in the United States there are a lot of cultures in one country. There are so many traditions being brought from so many cultures and race which makes this country unique.

Ashley H.

aherna853 — 2025-03-31 05:49:43 UTC

Being American doesn't apply to one specific individual with certain features. That is what being American is: a variety of people from different cultural backgrounds who live in the United States and share their culture with one another.

Adolfo Fuentes

2025-03-31 05:51:47 UTC

Being American can have different meanings. Being American can refer to having a cultural values that associate with the United States such like freedom, opportunity and individualism.

2025-03-31 05:57:11 UTC

Being American can be complex becasue most people would say it means being white. But as the years progress the more diverse this nation has become. But we don't let that stop us and we still have each others back and look out for our people regardless of our ethnicity and I think that's what it truly means to be American

Bryan Perez

2025-03-31 06:18:43 UTC

I'd just like to keep it simple and say being American is diversity in all forms.

Denisse Ramirez

2025-03-31 07:53:42 UTC

I think being American is being united which included all the people who came immigrated here to get a better life, they unite with others for everyone to have a better life

Kevin Ospina

kevinospinacol25 — 2025-03-31 09:00:19 UTC

For me, America represents diversity and freedom, where people can express themselves. Even though we are going through tough times, America is full of resilient people.

Andrea Diaz

2025-03-31 21:58:11 UTC

I think being American is being part of a diverse country where people from different backgrounds and cultures come together.

Fredy Escobar

2025-04-01 01:14:42 UTC

This image can represent America because it emphasizes the idea of liberty. We are supposed to be free to express ourselves and our beliefs, but it seems we are going backwards with the current events.

Jason Turcios

jasonturcios05 — 2025-04-01 03:17:35 UTC

For me, America or being American is being free or being on the land of the free no matter what race you are and that my definintion of it now is that anyone can be american from how diverse the US is today.

Katherine Argueta

2025-04-03 03:14:12 UTC

When I think "American", the first thing that comes in mind is the stereotypical white person but thinking about it more as of today, I would say it is more of the different people of different communities coexisting and sharing different ideas.

Angela Garcia

ngarciae0004 — 2025-04-03 06:16:55 UTC

Zuleika Acuna

2025-04-03 19:25:11 UTC

For me, "American" is more than just legal status or where you were born. It's about the people who helped build this country. It's about resilience, hope and the pursuit of a better future. Immigrants have always helped shape this country and America thrives because of its diversity and the vital part immigrants are to this country.

Yesenia Moncada

2025-04-04 18:52:07 UTC

For me " American" means everyone that helped build a land. This excludes everyones legal status.

Alina Ramonette

2025-04-04 21:51:29 UTC

I believe america is where people from all over unite together and recongize that we are all human. That are differences make us stronger together coming from so many different backgrounds and all.

Luis Avila

2025-04-04 23:53:05 UTC

To me, the term "American" means to have unity among each other. Every culture and background thrives in the U.S compared to other countries so the people should be united.

2025-04-06 01:04:35 UTC

To me being american can vary, because sometimes you aren't just american. It can mean your culture plus believing in what the US gives, such as freedom, speech, etc.. and using that to speak up

Nathaniel Jaco-Razon

2025-04-06 13:24:40 UTC

Being “American” refers to anyone living within the United States who is a member of the US society. This transcends a person's ethnicity or legal status because anyone in the US can contribute to its economy or participate in protests for causes they believe in. Furthermore, everyone in the United States has access to almost every right (with the exception of voting).

vanessa A

2025-04-07 01:46:20 UTC

i belive this image in a way reprents america since its not only about having a legal statues. For years now america had been a place with many diversity. fillied with many culturtrs from people who has come from diffrent countires.

2025-04-07 02:31:43 UTC

I think that based on its history "American" isn't just a country but a representation of what people want. It's somewhere were people express themselves however they want. It's also a place where people from many backgrounds come to for a chance at a better life.

Anthony Parra

2025-04-07 03:16:21 UTC

To me, being "American" is being part of a culture that promotes freedom of expression and cultural diversity. It is common to see people from all backgrounds embrace their American culture.

Felipe Avila

2025-04-07 04:09:39 UTC

For me, America means winning. It means uniting people for a greater good that benefits all of us. It means patriotism, being a good samaritan in times of need. It means sticking up for the little guy. That's what I believe being and American is about.

Joaquin Moraga

2025-04-07 05:17:17 UTC

Being American makes me imagine someone who lives in the US for quite a while where you adapt a lot of things normally seen in America. Your actions essentially make you more American or not.

Christa Pinedo

christapinedo21 — 2025-04-07 05:27:04 UTC

To me America means freedom, cultural acceptance, and value. It is a country where cultures can come together and appreciate one another, a country where no one should be judged for their beliefs. My family's integration to the US was not easy. My dad came from Zacatecas and my mom's parents came from Jalisco. Just like any other immigrant they came to the US to provide a better lifestyle for their families. Although the journey was tough, they are proud of the successful and loving family that has been created.

Mynor Ramirez

2025-04-07 05:37:32 UTC

To me being American means taking a risk and trying to constantly strive towards something better whatever it may be.

Mario Merino

2025-07-23 22:07:19 UTC

America is a place of hopes and dreams where people are free and united together.

Mark Raspopov

2025-07-24 03:54:23 UTC

Being "American" usually means valuing individual freedom and believing that hard work leads to success. Americans tend to be informal, direct, and optimistic about the future. The culture emphasizes independence, taking risks, and the idea that anyone can "make it" regardless of their background.

Chiran Liyanage

2025-07-25 00:26:33 UTC

Being "American" in my perspective means being part of a country with numerous cultures, identities, and voices. No matter where you hail from, being in America means you are in the land of opportunities, you have the chance to chase your goals, and the freedom to express yourself.

Ashley Quintero

2025-07-25 06:56:36 UTC

Being American is made up of different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences, so being American isn’t just about where you’re born or what you look like. While the idea of being American is often tied to freedom and equality, not everyone has always had access to those things. I think being American should mean embracing diversity and making space for everyone’s story.

Jacob Gonzales

2025-07-25 23:02:37 UTC

American to me is anyone who has come to this country with the intent to make a better life for themselves and the community around them.

Giselle Duran

2025-07-26 20:18:35 UTC

To me, being American means having the freedom to express yourself through your identity. It means being proud of where you come from, while still being part of something bigger. Being American is also about coming together to fight for your rights and standing up for what you believe in. The United States is built on many different cultures, and that diversity is what makes it strong. Being American isn’t about being just one thing, it’s about being able to be yourself and still belong.

Samantha Reynoso

2025-07-26 23:14:42 UTC

An American is someone who has the ability to express their culture, their liking and who they truly are as a person. Americans can achieve a dream that they set, there will be troubles along the way but determination will overcome those challenges and their hardwood will all be worth it.

Senen Perez

2025-07-27 01:25:23 UTC

To me being American is the right and liberty to do whatever you please no matter the law or leader in our country. It is the right to have equal protection and opportunities as the rest of the citizens in the United States. Being an American helps families overcome the barriers and achieve the "American Dream" here in the States.

Jared Reyes

2025-07-27 20:30:20 UTC

I think an “American” is someone in this country who works hard to do the absolute best that they can.

Madelyn Morales

2025-07-28 03:41:13 UTC

I think being American means living on this land. You don't have to be legal or look a certain way, you just see the beauty in this country. It is extremely diverse and holds a space for different cultures. It also has lots of opportunities.

Cristian Hernandez Juan

2025-07-28 04:53:16 UTC

Both my mom and dad are from Mexico, immigrating to the US around the early 2000s. My parents came to the US for a better life for themselves and ultimately marrying and having me. I was born in the US in which my parents both worked hard to give both me and my brother the best they could provide. They did everything to make sure I got clean clothes, a roof over my head and spent everything on our education. My first language was Spanish so once school started I had trouble learning how to speak english but over time got better and am now bilingual.

To me an American means someone in search of a better life willing to make sacrifices to ensure a better future for themselves. American means to embrace everyone while also celebrating diversity.

Melody Ortega

2025-07-28 06:34:08 UTC

I think that being “American” is about being free, to respect and thrive with all these different cultures. There isn’t one race that’s better, there’s not one culture that’s better than every other culture. Each culture is unique and has its own story. Every “American” has their own story, stories that we can learn and appreciate.

Sandra Hernandez

2025-07-28 12:38:40 UTC

To me, being American means coming from a blend of cultures and backgrounds. This land was originally home to Indigenous peoples, who generously shared their food, traditions, and land. Sadly, colonizers took advantage of that kindness and claimed the land as their own. Today, we call it the “land of the free” — a place where people from all races and cultures should feel accepted and safe. Being American isn’t about the color of your skin or where your family comes from — it’s about embracing diversity, unity, and the belief that everyone belongs.

2025-07-29 03:56:58 UTC

America is supposed to be the "Land of the Free," where parents migrate to in order to provide a good future full of new opportunities to their families. America is built by many different cultures and ethnicities however lately people have started to slowly lose their freedom of speech to everything that is going on around with the current president and bias laws.

Isabel Molina

2025-07-30 19:09:17 UTC

I think being American is having free will to do what you want and say what you want. I think it is being able to be with other people from different backgrounds and experiences. My grandparents immigrated to the US from Mexico and El Salvador. Thanks to them my parents, siblings, and I are able to live a life filled with more opportunity.

Leonardo Granados

2025-07-30 21:54:46 UTC

I believe being an American to me is being able to freely choose what we eat, how we act, and what we praise without judging others. It's taking a little bit of everyone culture and adding it to ours if we like them. It's thanks to the Constitution that we are able to accomplish this and even strive for greater ventures in life.

Tammy Hong

2025-07-31 21:06:27 UTC

Being "American" for me is a lot of confusing thoughts. Though everyone is taught that being in America is to be free and dream however they would want to be. There are many different mixed cultures and food fusions and etc which is what makes America for what it is, to be culturally diverse than other countries. Working your way up to help achieve your dream, even through your own children, they continue to dream and keep striving forward in America. It is to be your own person and a mix of both your culture and American culture.

Miriam Villalobos

2025-08-03 06:18:31 UTC

To me American means being diverse and inclusive. Being open to anyone and being able to lend a hand to those in need. It means being able to feel free wherever I am not worrying about what language I speak or the color of my skin. It means following the constitution and state laws without being under a dictatorship.

Brian Ramirez

2025-08-03 18:38:18 UTC

To me being an American means two different things. Being born in the US or being naturalized is the textbook definition of an American, but more so to me, American means being a part of the many cultures present here. Liking American movies like Marvel, or playing popular games and sports that have taken over the country. Americans don't have a set skin tone or background. There is a level of diversity that doesn't exist any where else, I'd like to think both definitions are valid.

Lindsey S

2025-10-07 03:20:11 UTC

When I think of America I think about how there are so many different cultures here and how people from all over the world more here for the “American Dream”. For opportunities that they might not get somewhere else.

Caroline Carrillo

2025-10-07 20:36:34 UTC

For me, being "American" means more than living in the United States. It's about coming together with people from different cultures and backgrounds, respecting each other, and learning from one another. It's also about sharing what makes each of us unique while still being united. There isn't one specific type of person who is American. Anyone can be American, no matter where they come from, as long as they believe in values like respect, freedom, and equality.

Daniela Munoz

2025-10-11 00:13:22 UTC

America is the blend of many different cultures and people from many different backgrounds who inhabit the United States. Being "American" has many different definitions as it is what people make of the opportunities that are provided to them.

Leslie Gonzalez

2025-10-12 19:45:34 UTC

I believe being an American is being able to have freedom and having the ability to achieve the American dream, even though many people may not believe in it. America symbolizes a country of diversity and equity among its citizens. Maybe right now it's not the best time, but the president's prior made Americans feel proud of being in a country with morals and values and showing appreciation of its multicultural citizens.

Dalis Lopez Aguilera

2025-10-14 20:42:15 UTC

When I think of America, I think about how it is ultimately revered for the "American Dream". This is a land where everyone should have the right to life and liberty. I think that at the beginning it might have been that, but through the years, and especially now in our modern days, it seems to have lost this meaning. America has become an incredibly diverse place, with so many people from different backgrounds, cultures, ethnicities, and identities. American culture is largely revolved around others, especially people of color. America has been built by people of color for years, contributing to the economy, making movements, changes, and fighting for justice. The unification of people, communities, foods, cultures, music, fashion, pop culture, etc. That is what I think being American is.

Jorge Carreon

jorgemcarreon — 2025-10-20 23:51:38 UTC

I can safely say I don’t like what being “American” means today: Angry, mean, irrational, willfully ignorant, easily led, crass, xenophobic, misogynistic, trans/homophobic, and extremist. I always thought I was a model American, but it appears I am not in the eyes of the leaders elected by members of my community.

It has been a long year since the 2024 election, and so much has happened since this concussive event. Something as benign as sports fandom is triggering to me now. I won’t wear a fucking Dodgers tee shirt because I now equate it as representing an ideal of conformity within my community at a moment where we are being used and exploited by a political machine determined to vilify and erase us from the national identity and narrative.

It’s not the Dodgers' fault, but unfortunately, it is part of the normalization of this shitty era of opportunism run amok. It infuriates me that the American Latino community’s complacency is such that it can’t fathom the depths of its betrayal and willful ignorance.

Chicano leader and icon Cesar Chavez believed that being an American meant actively serving the community and participating in the political process to create change. He famously stated, "We don't need perfect political systems; we need perfect participation.” As I begin to leave my 50s, I’ve seen our value systems be compromised and challenged in ways I didn’t anticipate when I was naive and younger, selfish and greedy.

I’ve broken away from an industry and a values system that did little to protect me from the crash-and-burn of the pandemic and the entertainment labor strikes that finally forced me to reevaluate my life choices. I don’t blame anyone for that, and the signs were already there. I, too, was complacent and comfortable with my perceived entitlement and privilege.

Now, I work as a clerk at a high school, which is inspiring me to pursue a new path and help heal much of what I allowed the entertainment industry to break within me. I am back in school, working to change this next stage of my adult life as a gay Latino American. Whether I become an educator, join the media in a different context, or both, I want to ensure my participation in what is certainly the most significant moment in our modern history helps restore our democratic processes and makes critical thinking, logic, and empathy values that define the American Identity again. The era of the TechBroletariat has got to come crashing down. That I can say this freely and without fear of reprisals in this authoritarian era is part of what being an American means. And that we can reinvent ourselves to be better for our communities, our nation, and the world at large, is also what it means to be an American to me in 2025.

“Preservation of one’s own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for other cultures.” - Cesar Chavez.

Christian Perez

2025-10-21 04:58:48 UTC

To me, being American means having the freedom to follow your own path and chase your dreams. I think of the American Dream—how people come to this country hoping for a better life and believing that, with hard work, anything is possible. It’s not always easy, especially if you come from a different culture or background, but that’s what makes it powerful. Being American is about having the courage to keep going, even when things are tough, and believing in yourself no matter where you come from. It’s about opportunity, hope, and never giving up on what you want to achieve.

Samantha Osuna

2025-10-21 22:26:41 UTC

I can't really think about what "American" means when it's been tarnished and misused, even abused, at times. I honestly don't know as every person has a different idea on it, or belief of it, and it continues to be read differently that there really is no true definition. If I were to try, I would say that "American" means living on this soil, whether you were born here or not. It's about the culture of wanting a better life; a new beginning, for not only yourself, but the future generations. It's about using the past and how it affected you, to live a better present and what you do with it, and create a better future and where it leads you. It's the idea of being free from restraint, being hopeful, allowing yourself to reach your full potential and individuality.

jessica aquino

jaquin57 — 2025-10-24 00:47:40 UTC

Many Mexican families came to the United States seeking work and a better life. They often started by farming, working in factories, or doing manual labor, and over time became part of local communities, bringing their traditions, food, and culture with them. They built businesses, celebrated holidays like Día de los Muertos, and shared their language and customs, which helped enrich American culture. Their migration fits into U.S. history during the 20th century, especially after the Mexican Revolution (1910s) and during periods of labor shortages, like World War II, when programs like the Bracero Program brought many Mexican workers to the U.S. Over the decades, Mexican-American families have continued to grow, contributing to politics, arts, and society while balancing life between their heritage and American culture.

Natalie De Leon

ndeleo24 — 2025-10-24 05:41:13 UTC

To me, being “American” means living in a country built on diversity, where people from many backgrounds come together and share their cultures. It’s not about one specific race, food, or tradition, it’s about the mix of them all. Immigrants are a huge part of what makes America what it is, and they help shape the country’s identity every day. “American” represents freedom, acceptance, and the belief that everyone belongs here, no matter where they come from.

Anthony Obeso

2025-10-24 21:35:03 UTC

America feels like an empty pot. It's not anything which holds it's own identity but the identity and cultures of others which mix together to create what is america. The freedom which is given and the dream of being able to get rich is what keep people coming in but America is inherently nothing it doesn't have it's own identity but becomes the identity of the cultures within it.

Angie Mendez

2025-10-24 22:38:23 UTC

For me, the word “American” does not refer to one culture or language or look, but rather the combination of many things. It has taken a notion of American from a narrow and exclusive category to one that is diverse and always evolving. America is stories, traditions, and preparation of food from other countries that combined create one nation.

Chanel Hernandez

2025-10-25 00:14:42 UTC

To me, being “American” means embracing diversity, freedom, and the mix of cultures that make up the country. It’s not about one race or background it’s about people from many places coming together and creating something new

Irene Chen

theirenechen12 — 2025-10-25 04:03:35 UTC

To be American means to have inhabited the United States and associate ourselves with American values. It also means to stand with the values aligned with our country. In addition, it especially means to associate ourselves with the values, especially of the state we inhabit in out of the 50 states of the United States of America. Since our country is democratic, we are able to promote our own virtues to the government through participating in voting in elections or not hesitating to work together to take down any laws rendered unconstitutional, as well as amend the Constitution as needed. Also, an important part of being American is not necessarily being proud of our President and supportive of every President, but to not be hesitant to impeach a President whenever their laws are unfair or to reverse any policies/regulations made that worsen the well-being of the population. Not only that, but the same applies to State Governors and even city mayors, as different states and even cities have different laws.

Carter Lim

clim35_2 — 2025-10-25 07:31:29 UTC

To me being American isn't just about living in America, but being able to embrace the different cultures that exist here. Being able to share different cultures, ideas, and values, freely. So "American" can't be used to describe only a certain culture but a mix of different cultures.

Leslie Vaca

2025-10-25 07:54:40 UTC

I believe there is not just one straight definition of what it means to be American. Over the years, this idea has changed. Years ago, being American meant being born in America and being committed to serving one's country. In recent times, being American means actively living in the US and serving one's purpose in the community, regardless of one's legal status. What it means to be American depends on who you ask.

My grandparents originally lived in Jalpa, Zacatecas, and crossed the border illegally to get to the United States. After years of living here, the president at the time, Ronald Reagan, signed the Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA), which allowed them to obtain their green cards. After obtaining their green cards, they had my mother, and then she had me.

Angel Garcia

2025-10-25 18:43:28 UTC

To me, “American” means diversity people from many cultures living together and sharing traditions

Kevin Flor

2025-10-25 19:46:22 UTC

Being American means different people from different backgrounds, cultures, and ethnicities living in the U.S.A., sharing their stories and living out their dreams to strive to become something great, for both themselves and the people they love.

Fidel Garcia

2025-10-25 23:11:05 UTC

To be an American it means to embrace the freedom to express yourself and pursue your dreams while respecting the rights of others. Being an American is also about contributing to a society in your own way that values opportunity, innovation, and justice.

Brianna Median

brianna92606 — 2025-10-26 04:23:58 UTC

I've been told that being an American is more than just a citizen or living in American. Which I agree because America is supposed to mean having to be free and have equal rights/ opportunities. That's why many parents from different countries like mine immigrated from their home land to provide their kids an "American Dream" and make American a better country establishment. Keep in mind that American isn't really have a set definition since it is a stolen land. Also to have the ability to do what you want, how you want, and where you want. The amendment was created for a reason that provides us those freedoms, like the freedoms of speech, and the freedom of religion. American needs to go back and understand that's the Amendment was created for.

Maria Gonzalez

2025-10-26 05:56:23 UTC

Being American means fitting in with society. Being American means eating "normal foods" such as hamburgers, cookies, donuts, pizza, etc. America is full of many cultures, identities, traditions and languages. I believe being in America is to live up to the white supremacy norms. Being American is fitting in with the people around you whether it is the way you act, speak or dress. But I also think being American is being open to learning about people's differences and cultural values.

Marissa Rodriguez

2025-10-26 06:03:29 UTC

My dad came to the United States about 35 years ago from Guadalajara. My mom was born in the United States so she never had to migrate. My dad was 17 when he came here with his parents for a better life to work and go to school. They knew that the United States society could provide them an opportunity to come across finances and freedom. I am beyond grateful that my dad has shown what a man should provide to my sister and I because of the way he treats my mom. We are a middle class family and they have shown me what this country has to offer when you work hard for success.

What it means to be American - Jeovanna Lopez

jlopez565_1 — 2025-10-26 19:30:33 UTC

To me, being American means accepting and celebrating people from all different cultures and backgrounds. We might eat different foods, speak different languages, or have different traditions but we all share the same home. Being American is about coming together, respecting each other, and learning from one another. It is not just about where you are from but how you treat others and contribute to your community. America is not just one culture it is many cultures blended into one.

Agustin Campoy

acampoy2_1 — 2025-10-26 20:45:52 UTC

Being American is taking pride in the U.S and being grateful for it even if you weren't born in the U.S. Anyone can be American if they live in America.

Eldai Galindo

2025-10-26 21:29:33 UTC

To me, being "American" isn't about one race, language, or tradition ,it's about the mix of all of them. The idea America has always been tied to diversity and change, even though the reality hasn't always lived up to that promise. Being American means constantly questioning what freedom, equality, and opportunity really mean, and trying to make those ideas real for everyone. It's also about being able to express yourself freely, or seeing people from different backgrounds working together.

Alexis Silva

2025-10-26 22:04:43 UTC

To me, being an American is a mix of cultures and backgrounds from people all over the world, sharing food and traditions, and accepting that other people come here for a better life and for their freedom of speech. People should be proud of their culture and should be able to share it and not be scared of who they are.

amymartinezr7 — 2025-10-26 22:21:22 UTC

Being American means coming together from different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences to form one community. It represents diversity, unity, and the idea that everyone’s story and effort help the country grow, like the many hands and faces in the image connecting as one tree. Even though there is a lot going on with ICE raids and immigration issues, being American should still mean standing together with compassion and supporting those who seek a better life.

Emily Martinez-Rivera

amymartinezr7 — 2025-10-26 22:21:29 UTC

Peyton Repar

2025-10-26 23:00:26 UTC

I feel this image best represents America because it shows how the US is a "melting pot" of so many cultures. People from all over the world come and share their traditions and culture, blending different foods and holidays together. I think everyone here represents America in their own way because the US is so diverse that there isn't one specific cookie cutter way to be "American".

2025-10-26 23:41:17 UTC

I think america is freedom.Atleast for the most part a place where you can think what you want own what you want and kind of do what you want. I don't mean like a gta server, but more like a place that doesn't restrict you too much. I added a gun because for what even reason it's easy to buy one here. But that's freedom. -roy

Daniel Mata

mrmata2024 — 2025-10-27 01:23:53 UTC

When I think of "American" I think about the country I was born in. While not perfect, I still take pride in where I live and the people that live in it. No matter your race, ethnicity, sex, preference, religion, or even the way you think.

Joshua Liao

2025-10-27 03:41:30 UTC

I see that being just an American is living in the United States, living under "freedom" and being diverse and having multicultural awareness. However being a true American is the embodiment of the government and the respect, honor, and dedication to state and country. As my parents immigrated when they were teens during the 1970s, there were waves of immigrations during the time so their integration into U.S. society was not difficult but tedious. They have to work hard and had many provisions from those who immigrated earlier or supporting families also because it was in LA the culture is quite diverse already by their time.

Diego Nicolas

2025-10-27 03:52:29 UTC

Being American is someone who is born or has lived a majority of their life in the United States of America. This being that those who are not born in the US can come here to this nation to make it their new home and strive for a life that they were not able to achieve in their place of origin due to a multitude of reasons. It is for this reason my parents came to the US to have the opportunities to make money to provide to their parents and eventually to me and my siblings. This was their goal for the next few decades at which point they decided to go back to their birthplace after they felt like they had helped their children enough to stand on their own to feet.

Ezra Maysonet

2025-10-27 04:00:39 UTC

To be American is a privilege that not many people realize the naturally have. As my grandparents came to Mexico on their own before the ages of 18, they worked hard to provide for the family and life they built. They both were blessed to recieve their cititzenship. My Nana worked as a babysitter taking care of her comadres children and getting business by word of mouth. My Tata worked in a blue collar position but had to go on disability after an injury that dehabilitated him from work. Regardless, they always made ends meet for their family.

Joseph Hernandez

2025-10-27 04:11:50 UTC

Being American is taking pride in the countries roots and where it came from, and taking pride in the fact that our founding fathers took a risk in making a large scale democracy that has worked for over 200 years. But being American is also acknowledging and accepting all the different cultures that reside here most of our population are immigrants with the only true natives being the indigenous Native Americans.

Germany Ixcoy-Sanic

2025-10-27 04:34:06 UTC

I believe being American is not only about having citizenship, but who you choose to be and what you believe in. It’s your values, ideals, identity, and culture coming together to form who you are. Being American means having the freedom to express yourself and respect the differences of others. It’s about unity in diversity and the idea that everyone has a place and a voice.

Kelly Martinez

2025-10-27 04:47:33 UTC

To me, being “American” isn’t just about being born in the United States, it’s about the mix of cultures, traditions, and stories that make up this country. America is made up of people from many different backgrounds, and that diversity is what defines it. Being American means having the freedom to express your identity, while also learning and respecting others’ cultures.

Esmeralda Quintero

2025-10-27 04:53:06 UTC

America is people from different cultures and backgrounds coming together to from one single community. It emphasizes the unity and the idea that each individual contributes to help the country grow. Americans should know compassion and support to those seeking a better life, even in the face of challenges like immigration issues.

Juan Vaca

2025-10-27 05:00:27 UTC

Although we can simply use the legal definition as an American classified as a citizen I believe it goes much deeper than that. When comparing a legal immigrant who has only been here for a few months to an undocumented immigrant who has been here for decades its clear to me that the most important factor to being an American is having the time to take in the country.

2025-10-27 05:58:26 UTC

Being American can mean a lot of things. I believe that being American means freedom, such as having the ability to have freedom of speech, opportunities, and being treated fairly. I also believe being American is embracing diversity and respecting the differences that make our country unique. It means standing up for what you believe in and having the courage to make your voice heard. Being American is also about helping others and working together to build a better future.

Fernando Espinoza

2025-10-27 22:23:00 UTC

When you think of America you think of land marks and I think the most iconic one would be the statue of liberty.

Thomas Montiel

thomasmontielaquino2020 — 2025-10-27 22:31:13 UTC

What does being American mean to you? It means to have pride in being American. It means I have rights. I have liberty and freedom. I have the right to vote. To keep my freedom, I have to follow the law. Being an American means having many opportunities. I can be anything I want to be. No one can tell me what I can't do. My parents immigrated to the U.S. and established themselves. Because of my parents, I am an American. My family, children, grandchildren, and so on will be Americans. It means that when the U.S. national team is in the World Cup or Team USA is in the Olympics, we support them. It means I celebrate the 4th of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, etc. It means I can do anything that's American.

Jibsam Garcia

2025-10-28 01:54:14 UTC

Being American means to not be anything like your neighbor in some ways, but for a good reason. I have a white neighbor who came from Ohio and he always greets us every morning and is always invited to our dinner parties. The fact is, being American means being able to welcome those who are unfamiliar with your culture, and likewise. Being American means living in a country made up of different cultures and backgrounds where we have the freedom to do what we please may it be business or creative. My parents didn't know a lick of english and still decided to come here to start a life with nothing and Im always grateful and teary eyed when I hear stories of people going through the same thing or have gone through the same thing.

Nicholas Arroyo

2025-10-28 05:02:55 UTC

For me Being American is all of us in the US working as a whole and thriving together. Everyone's culture, ethnicity, and heritage. So I think American is being part of something bigger and making sure that we all thrive as a whole

Araseli Gudino

2025-10-28 07:30:48 UTC

To me being American is having freedom, having the opportunity to become someone important or useful in life. When i think of America i think of many different race trying their best to create/ have a better life. Like my mother who came to the U.S. with big dreams for herself but couldn’t due to having kids but now she has faith in all my siblings to become someone good in life and to achieve big things, big things she didn’t get the chance to do due to her being in Mexico.

Nadia Hernandez

2025-10-28 19:58:44 UTC

I think the definition of “American” has definitely changed from its initial meaning and it changes depending on who you ask. America is a country built on the backs of immigrants and slaves and Native Americans but a lot of people don’t like to acknowledge that. Being American used to mean that you made it to a place where you can build a better life for your family and live in safety. That’s not quite true anymore but I hope we can get that back one day. I don’t like to claim this country anymore, especially in recent years.

Christian Mendoza

2025-11-03 06:33:17 UTC

I think that this image of Costco sums up my family's integration. For a long time, my family and extended family did not have access to Costco (2000s - 2010s). We just didn't for some reason. Finally, my older cousins had unlocked it for everyone, and it was a dream come true for all of us. Having "Kirkland Signature" was a huge deal. It was a status symbol and a big talking point for the family back in Mexico. Since they live in small towns and are hours away from the nearest warehouse store, they loved the idea of visiting a Costco in the US. While legal citizenship may be a dream for my Mom and other family members, they're content with having a Costco card through me and my cousins.

Kristi Chui

2026-03-17 03:23:16 UTC

I believe the term "American" means a symbol of freedom and hope to its citizens. How my family integrated into US society is that they came from a different background and are not native here. But they've moved to the US to live and have a better life. For me, I was born here and used to the American customs but also adapting to my family's ethnic background as it's also part of my identity as well.

Abigail Navarro

2026-03-17 18:59:51 UTC

America is the land we inhabit from cultures already present. Turning it into the so called land of freedom. Lady Liberty stands tall for us and our freedom. The freedom to build family and communities. To be one with the country.

Leonardo mendez

2026-03-17 19:05:08 UTC

being American is to it's core having the opportunity others don't get having different cultures and communities come into this one thing and seeing it having the chance to live a life that you want

zhaogui

2026-03-21 10:14:36 UTC

To me, being American means diversity, freedom, and different cultures living together. It is not just one identity but a mix of a mix of many background.

Samantha Ortiz

2026-03-21 18:43:13 UTC

Being American is shaped by many different cultures, histories, and experiences.

Samantha Ortiz

2026-03-21 18:44:01 UTC

“American” refers to the many different cultures, histories, and experiences that make up the United States, since it is made up of diverse communities. Being “American” also means sharing certain values such as freedom and opportunity.

Gael Hernandez

2026-03-23 21:27:31 UTC

Katherin Perez

alvarezkatherin477 — 2026-03-23 22:27:34 UTC

“American” means different things depending on perspective, but in general it refers to people, culture, and values associated with the United States. It is not limited to one race, ethnicity, or background. Instead, it includes a mix of many cultures, traditions, and histories because the U.S. is a diverse country made up of people from all over the world.

To me, “American” represents diversity, freedom, and a blend of different cultural identities coming together. It can include shared experiences like language (English), common symbols (the flag, holidays), and values like independence and opportunity, while still allowing people to keep their own cultural traditions.

Karla Mejia-Cardenas

2026-03-26 07:46:21 UTC

To me, "American" represents diversity, people from many cultures, backgrounds, and traditions living together.

Avril Jacinto

03avvril — 2026-03-27 01:44:53 UTC

To me being American means freedom and liberty. There are so many diverse cultures that make up America. And anyone living here has the liberty to have that freedom without having to worry about consequences. Its sad to think that if you go outside you could get deported just because of your skin color and we shouldn't live in that fear.

Jonathan Hernandez Lopez

2026-03-27 01:46:40 UTC

I believe that being American means to identify as someone who follows the written law and who desires to be here. It might also mean that you're chasing the "American Dream" that was once the slogan. As stereotypical as it gets, I might also include that being American means that you live in a crazy country where no one is free, no matter what the law says.

Carlos Sanchez

2026-03-27 05:05:42 UTC

I feel like being American is just being a part of the United States, regardless of citizenship, and all that it's about being a part of a society thats emersed in different cultures. It's also about the country's opportunities and freedom that it has, while also having other cultures that bring America to life with the different foods and traditions, creating a more diverse culture.

Genesis Sanchez G.

2026-03-27 07:15:33 UTC

The term "American" can have several meanings. Whether it's someone who's from the US, culture, or even language, to me, being American is a shared commitment to liberty & equality across different cultural identities. To fight for our values and beliefs. Though I believe that being American can be a controversial topic now that we have been dealing with a current issue that no longer goes with this perspective.

Evelyn Del Real

2026-03-29 06:04:31 UTC

An American is the combination of different people from different backgrounds and experiences, everyone has their own life story. America is filled with so much diversity of cultures, where being American is taking pride in the country but also acknowledging the diversity that America is built upon. An American is the combination of different people from different backgrounds and experiences, everyone has their own life story. America is filled with so much diversity of cultures, where being American is taking pride in the country but also acknowledging the diversity that America is built upon.

Amy Gutierrez

2026-03-29 19:43:37 UTC

To me, being American is defined by the freedom to follow any cultural, political, or religious beliefs. It’s to be able to respect one another as well.

Adrian Padilla

2026-03-29 20:25:17 UTC

I believe "being in American" can mean many different things it just depends how you take it and and how you want to be described as an American such as the culture, the community, and what stand up for.

Andrik Medina

2026-03-29 20:36:02 UTC

Being American means more than just citizenship. It means coming together and being apart of something greater. Diversity, freedom and embracing everyones differences is being American.

Diverse Flag- Francia Cornejo

2026-03-29 21:52:18 UTC

For me, this picture caught my attention because the American flag is not the only representation of all the diverse groups living here. Red, white, and blue are not the only colors that represent the people. This country wouldn’t be what it is without people from all over the world, and even the foods we go out to eat show that we have so many options because of the diverse dishes people have shared with us.

Ricardo Garcia

z7vnry8dfv — 2026-03-30 01:10:43 UTC

To me, being American means diversity and freedom. The American flag represents people from many different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences all coming together as one. It’s not just about where you’re from, but about shared values like opportunity, individuality, and the ability to express yourself. Being American means you can have your own identity while still being part of a larger community.

Sean Gomez-Kegel

2026-03-30 03:39:46 UTC

Being American means to me that you are someone with different culture, 22 percent of the US speak a different language at home and 14 percent are immigrants but those are the people that work twice as hard as anyone else and to me that's what being American means to me.

2026-03-30 04:12:16 UTC

Adan Arana: Being an American is being free to be who you are, without having someone pushing you down.

Jair Martinez

2026-03-30 04:18:58 UTC

To be American, I believe, is to be born in America. There is no true/ideal American, as I believe America is more than just the white people who try to claim to be their land, but when in reality it's everybody's but theirs. To be American is just to be born in America and want to embrace that nationality, but many don't want to accept the diversity.

Sheila

2026-03-30 04:19:45 UTC

Luis Moran

2026-03-30 04:25:00 UTC

My family is of Mexican descent. I don't when they began integrating into the US, but I know that for many of them, it hasn't been perfect. My grandparents on my mother's side integrated easily, learning how to fit perfectly no matter where they were in the country. My grandparents on my father's side couldn't integrate, living near the border as they struggled to feel comfortable anywhere else. Despite the various up and downs, I'm still proud of my family and where we come from.

Christopher Mejia

2026-03-30 04:52:45 UTC

I think that “American” means a mix of many different cultures, backgrounds, and identities coming together. It is not just one culture, but a combination of many traditions, languages, and experiences. To me, being American means diversity and the ability for people to express who they are.

Destinyi Chavez

dchave166 — 2026-03-30 05:50:46 UTC

“American” isn’t just one single thing or one type of person. It is more of an identity. It’s made up of many different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences all coming together in one place. Because of this, there isn’t one way to look, act, or live as an “American.” Being American can mean different things to different people, like freedom, opportunity, or just living in the United States. It just shows how people from many places can create a shared identity while still keeping there parts of their own culture. But it doesn’t always work perfectly like that. Sometimes people feel pressure to fit in or act a certain way, and differences can still lead to people feeling left out or judged. Even though America is supposed to be diverse, not everyone always feels accepted.

Daniel Sugiyama

2026-03-30 06:52:21 UTC

My family has been in America for five generations. I have fully adapted to American culture and have lost a lot of my Japanese culture. Life during WW2 was a troubling time for all Japanese Americans, not only my family. My great-grandparents got everything taken away from them as they were relocated to shabby huts far away from civilization and stayed there until 1945. My grandparents were born in the relocation camps, and that summarizes the point where we felt the most disconnected from U.S society.

Roberto Campos

2026-03-30 07:26:14 UTC

Being an American is more than just being a citizen in the US. It means coming together from different cultures and backgrounds as one community. It represents diversity and unity. Everyone should have the same oppurtunties and rights.

Jesus Cruz Torres

2026-03-30 09:15:37 UTC

I believe being American means you claim and are proud to be in this country. You've contributed to society some type of way. To a lot of people this country is seen as the promised lands, so I say any body regardless of being born here, if they're able to come here, be successful and contribute to society, I think that's what being an American is.

Melanie Guzman

2026-03-30 16:49:47 UTC

I think being “American” means standing together. Accepting each other's differences and helping each other when things fall apart.

Ignacio Moreno

2026-03-30 18:15:37 UTC

I believe that “American” is not just one specific culture or way of life, it’s a mix of many different backgrounds, traditions, and identities. It can include shared values like freedom, opportunity, and diversity, but it also reflects the many cultures that people bring with them. Also, “America” refers to the entire continent not just the United States, so being “American” can have broader meanings.

Isabella Lopez

bella34456 — 2026-03-31 06:33:51 UTC

Anyone could be American. Whether you are born here or not. I think that if you live here and you work or study then you could consider yourself an American. The United States was built off of immigrants so anyone from any country or race could be one.

Mikaela Gutierrez

2026-03-31 07:30:07 UTC

“American” is someone's background, culture, and where they grew up as well as how they grew up. It can be used to describe a person, food, or anything that is related to the U.S. It is a mix of identities and cultures.

Gabriel Chico

2026-04-03 20:31:44 UTC

I believe that being american is knowing that you have freedom. Freedom to do things that other countries are limited or can't do as easily as Americans.

Daniela Tamosaitis

2026-04-04 01:34:27 UTC

To me, being American means everyone is an immigrant. We all live on stolen land, and so many people come here to get the "American Dream". That means we get freedom and safety for our families, we get to embrace and share our cultures with everyone, allowing diversity and inclusivity. Despite our government failing us, it's important that everyone stays together during these difficult times.

Roberto Varela

2026-04-06 04:30:42 UTC

I feel like an “American” is entirely subjective to the person. However, I personally feel like an “American” is someone who lives proudly in the US while still feeling comfortable expressing themselves in the way that their culture would.

Alexa Martinez

2026-04-06 05:39:48 UTC

My mom is from Oaxaca and my dad is from CDMX. They both came here to the US for the same reason many others do, which is to give a better life for their family back home and the family they would eventually have here. Although I don't know much about either of their journeys and their integration into the life here, I do know that my mom already had family that came earlier already waiting for her and her brothers, who came along with her. As for my dad, he had no one and built his life here the best he could before he met my mom, which I'm sure is something that's rather common with immigrants. Being American to me means helping build the nation, contributing to its growth, and living amongst other people from different backgrounds and nationalities without hate or fear, whether officially a citizen or an undocumented immigrant. As long as you're accepting and proud to be part of and on "The Land Of The Free", then that's being American to me. It fits in to how the US was founded either way by immigrants seeking freedom from their homeland that was dangerous and oppressed.

Matthew Barreras

barrerasmatt06 — 2026-04-06 06:01:48 UTC

There is no one "American" culture; instead, there is a shared identity made up of many varied backgrounds and experiences. People from many different cultures are a part of it, and they bring their languages, traditions, and values to society. Being American doesn't mean living in one way; it entails reconciling a shared national identity with your own cultural heritage.

Jacqueline Flores

2026-04-06 06:24:34 UTC

Alexis Melendez

2026-04-06 06:38:42 UTC

To me, being American means a person who believes in brighter future for themselves and for their loved ones. To work hard and care for one another. To truly be united to uplift the country as a whole.

Diana Banuelos

2026-04-06 07:19:46 UTC

What is “American”? This is a good question to ask. America can mean more than just being born in the United States. It represents a mix of cultures, traditions, and identities from people all over the world. America is often regarded as a land of freedom and opportunity, where individuals can express themselves and work hard to build a better life. Because of immigration, there is no single definition of “American” because this word include many different backgrounds and languages.

Many families come to America in search of better opportunities, safety, or a new beginning. At the same time, they try to keep their traditions alive through food, celebrations, and family values. Over time, they balance both cultures, which honors where they come from while also becoming part of American society.

David Leon Chavez

2026-04-14 04:41:35 UTC

I just think that the best way to explain what is "American" is with a pot. the reason is because of how many say that America is just one melting pot filled with many different cultures and practices and I agree with that, and it's not just american itself, even some states, cities and towns all feel like a melting pot within a melting pot.

Andres Lopez

2026-04-18 22:45:34 UTC

For myself, “American” is more of a mixture and not just one thing or one kind of culture, food, language, or family background. Based on what we learned in class, we must evaluate our identity changes over time. In my personal view, “American” involves being a consistent mix of various cultures, cuisines, languages, and backgrounds. Since I’m Mexican-American, it has always meant having both of those identities at the same time in my life. To be American means to possess multiple identities in oneself. It has nothing to do with one’s choice of food or physical appearance.

What is American ?

2026-04-27 07:09:17 UTC

American is someone who is related to the United States of America it’s people or culture- Dayana Montufar

Frank Ramos

2026-05-11 09:24:14 UTC

America is a multicultural land where we are all able to share our ideas, love for things, and our resilience. Food plays a major role in this because of the fact that it has brought people together many times and has helped heal many situations. Being American can mean many different tins however its wat we make of it and wat we do with wat we are given