The article highlights the importance of diversity in culture, using the spirits industry as a primary example. It discusses how many traditional spirits, such as gin and Scotch, have origins rooted in cultural fusion. The piece critiques attempts to minimize diversity, arguing that such efforts overlook the rich histories and stories behind these drinks. The author emphasizes that American culture is intertwined with contributions from diverse populations, showcasing how innovation in the spirits industry often comes from blending different traditions.
The irony of attempting to erase diversity from our institutions is that diversity is the very foundation they're built upon. Our most 'traditional' spirits are themselves products of cultural fusion.
Our strength has always come from the blend, not from artificial separation. Our bars are living museums of human migration, innovation, and cultural exchange.
You can't separate American culture from the contributions of its diverse populations any more than you can separate bourbon from corn.
The global spirits industry thrives on innovation born from cultural fusion. Some of the most successful products in recent years have come from blending traditions.
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