Responses to how individuals plan to celebrate the Fourth of July reveal varied perspectives on American identity today. Many emphasize that America is characterized by its cultural diversity. Eileen Wampole expresses disappointment in the notion of equal protection under the law. Blair suggests a multicultural celebration instead of solely the American flag. Manal Ali, as a child of immigrants, feels disheartened about America’s current realities despite previous gratitude. DJ Squeak critiques American values perceived as selfish, while Alex Woods underlines the inclusive aspect of identifying as American.
"I would hope that would mean the equal protection of the law, but it doesn't seem to anymore," said Eileen Wampole. Wampole continued, "My American dream is that we treat everybody equally and well, that we would learn to share things rather than compete and make each other feel insecure."
"What makes America the country that it is, is the celebration of other cultures," Blair said. "It's a shame what I see in San Francisco, to be proud of the American flag. In a snarky and sardonic way. Tomorrow me and my friends are going to celebrate a bunch of different flags, not just the American flag."
"I'm a child of immigrants. To be an American is disheartening. My tax dollars are funding genocide across the world, inhumane detention centers, ICE - I am not proud of it. By the will of God I hope to make a difference," said Ali. "America did give my parents so much when they immigrated [here] back in the '80s and it's given me so much. I'm grateful for everything it's given me. But I don't identify with what America stands for today," she continued.
"Most Americans are really selfish and greedy, to me," said Squeak. "A good American represents their home and what their culture is."
"Anyone can identify as [American], that's what makes you an American, choosing that identity," said Alex Woods, who described herself as American-born and United Kingdom-raised.
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