Money, America & Hyphenated Americans

The world of a Hyphenated American is one filled with definitions, anecdotes, stereotypes, identity, race, religion, politics, psychology, philosophy, myth, and creed. The experience is unique to that culture, whether it is African, Latino, Jewish, or Greek. However, at the end of it all, these people are, at best, a secondary category to the status quo. They are the ‘Other’ to American.

Fundamentally, I believe most Americans could care less about another person’s cultural origin or background. The American edict is about where one is headed, how he or she got there, and how much money one made along the way. Obviously, there is racism and sexism in this country. However, it is a minority viewpoint, which government and the media exploit for power and gain. There is only one ideology, which dominates the American psyche: Money.

The guise, which has been at the forefront for many generations, is to define the foreign faces of America. This is a useful tool in suppressing lower income groups. Tapping into fears and anxieties, Americans are able to keep Hyphenated Americans downtrodden. Sure, a few have squeezed through the system. However, everyone is playing with the House’s Money. And, as everyone who has ever gambled knows, the House always wins.

The irony is that our nation was built on the hands and intellect of Hyphenated Americans. Simply travel the country. Every town, state and county name is borrowed by another culture: New York, Ypsilanti, Illinois, Los Angeles, Chicago, Lafayette, Utah, New Ulm. Henry Ford, the inventor of the assembly line, had roots in Ireland (his father) and Belgium (his mother). Television shows such as Three’s Company and The Office have their creative origin rooted in England. Hamburger has its origins in Germany, while Apple Pie claims its roots from England and the Dutch.

Of course, America and its citizens have taken from all aspects of the globe to create the utmost, post-modern existence. In fact, this cultural variety is what makes America unique, fruitful and hopeful. However, the Hyphenated American is one, who should be embraced, not victimized. During an election year, where race, sex and religion have become hot topic issues, one needs to be reminded about America – her meaning, intent, and purpose – rather than oppression, which has served to destroy her from within.

Catch ya' on the open road!

- gypsy george.