Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Who should change?
According to many of my Spanish students, when Hispanics (who they see only as Mexicans) come to America they should completely drop their language and customs and adopt ours. In short, they must completely change who they are. Many hispanics want to adopt our language and culture. They also hope to maintain their own heritage. They would like for us to learn about their language and customs so that their heritage does not become a thing of the past. What would you tell my students so that they can understand a little bit better?
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4 comments:
I don't think this is a problem that is unique to your students. I hear this kind of attitude all the time. While I do think it is useful it thy can learn about the culture and language we have here to help them interact with others, the two cultures are not mutually exclusive. I really think people have forgotten how this country was founded, "give us your poor and your hungry..." and this country is supposed to be a melting pot. When you make soup, do the peas all the sudden become carrots because they are next to them? No, the flavors blend and complement each other. The more variety the better. No one wants carrot water!
It is important for all people to maintain their own heritage to some degree. The world would be a boring place if we all tried to become like someone else. It is important to learn about the cultures of others as you embrace your own.
It is hard for young people to truly understand what it is like for a person to leave his or her homeland and venture to a new one, leaving behind all that is comfortable and safe. But as educators, we have an opportunity to help them learn just a little about what that is like and the impact it has on one's educational experience. I know you are doing a good job trying to help them understand. Keep up the good work!
We must remember the value each person brings to the melting pot. We must remind ourselves that when we enter into a new culture, our culture should not change. We must embrace the diversity, and learn from each other.
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