What is unique about the culture of the United States? Unlike many other countries, there is no national dance, there is no national dish and there is no national attire. American culture centers around American football, fast food, the latest gadgets and seeing who can make it to the top first, or so that is what many people think. But, underneath all that I would like to hope there is something greater and more vibrant.
Gretch and I decided to spend our Saturday afternoon at the 19th annual Bazar International, where there was savoring food, entertaining music and dancing, and intricate arts and crafts, brought from many different countries all over the world. It was a beautiful day and the atmosphere at the festival was exciting and interesting, without being overwhelming. It was relaxing to sit and watch all of the different dances and take in all of the different types of music. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
To my surprise, and disappointment, the United States was also one of the countries present. Seeing my country’s flag displayed and flying in the breeze gave me a sense of home. However, after passing the booths of other countries, which were filled with exquisite pieces of art and jewelery and clothing and many other things, viewing the one for the United States was disheartening and I had to laugh as I passed. The display, which was suppose to depict our “American heritage,” contained only a few quilts and a tray of gingerbread cookies. Oh, and a Christmas tree, which I have unfortunately discovered (after doing a little Googling) originated in Northern Germany.
To really make it worse, Dunkin Donuts, of all places, was there representing the “American diet.” Walking through the food section of the festival, was like wandering through a sea of mouthwatering smells. Authentic dishes and tastey treats were being prepared and consumed with great demand. Then, as I stumbled upon the booth for the United States, again, I laughed. I mean, Dunkin Donuts? Really? I understand that it is an American business, but is it a highlight of the American culture as well?
Does the United States have a rich culture beyond doughnuts, football and big toys? I really like to think so. To be honest, I am not sure why it bothered me so much to see all that today, and the more I think about it, it is quite silly. I guess it could prove just how diverse the country is and how much it has been influenced by other cultures. The United States is a great country, in the sense that it does have so much diversity, racially and culturally. Of course it doesn’t have a national dance or dish, there are simply too many. I love that about my country. No matter what part of the U.S.A. you visit, there is something different that makes that state or region unique. The United States is a “melthing pot;” it is full of many different rich cultures and interesting people. Unfortunately, in general, many Americans are often blind to others and the country has attacked many of cultures throughout history, but I think a richness still exists in many ways.
Living in Chile, which has very little diversity, makes me miss being surrounded by many different types of people with different backgrounds. And although it was a little disappointing to see how the U.S. was portrayed today, its okay. I still love it.
Note: It was great to learn that the quilt and gingerbread cookies actually did originate in the U.S. I didn’t know that. I guess instead of being disappointed about what the booth displayed, I should actually focus on the fact that I learned something.
