Preaching to the choir here, but our strength is in spite of our diversity; our strength is in the fact (or potential) that while we are a diverse nation, we hold to basic beliefs and principles (enumerated by our Founding Fathers) which provide a great unity in our diversity.
History has shown that placing one's loyalty on one's ethnic identity is a formula for chaos and conflict. It's fine to honor one's forefathers, wherever one may have come from, and I find experiencing different cultures (particularly their foods!) to be enriching. But let's be clear where our allegiance lies: It lies in the values and the principles of freedom that were laid down at our founding. Allegiance to anything else threatens to tear the nation apart.
Has anyone explained this to Jesse Jackson, and Al Sharpton?
I've ranted for 30 years about this "hyphenated-American bull-sh!t. It's pathetic. When I fill out a census form it asks me my ethnic background. I check off the following: German-English-Welsh.
When I get to the part that asks about my religion, I fill in the "other" space: G-E-W. Even though I'm a Christian Presbyterian.
A long time friend of mine (University of Denver room-mate) fills out the form as a "Reformed Ritual Cannibalist."
There is strength in our Diverse Roots.
Just about every country / race in the world has contributed to the American Populace and, in turn, to America's status as the greatest nation on Earth.
But I agree, our True Strength is our American Unity.
While we are waving the flag, and criticizing those that would burn it, let's not forget that as the parent corrects the child, and insures it's proper behaviour, We the People, must occasionally correct the nation's government.
And, maybe remind them that WE are "family"