Hence, in conclusion, it is acknowledged that an individual’s national, cultural and ethnic heritage can play an important role in shaping and molding their personal identities. But this is a transient process and as and when people counter new cultures and languages, they absorb these elements and start nurturing them as well. Richard Rodriguez’s personal journey through the labyrinthine cultural experiences is a classic example of the argument. Just as Rodriguez admits to the fluidity of our identities, so does Robin Kelley. In the case of Kelley though, his heritage was mixed to begin with, making his task of identifying himself with a particular community all the more challenging. But, as Robin wisely remarks, there is little point in taking up this challenge – all of us have mixed heritages, although it would be difficult for us to trace those bloodlines. A case in point is the common African ancestors for all other racial groups. Hence, to categorically claim one’s racial/linguistic/national group would be to narrow down one’s intellectual horizons and create conflict between humans. Instead, the ideal alternative is to embrace the universal in humanity and to celebrate our shared success.
Works Cited:
Okita, Dwight. ‘In Response to Executive Order 9066’. Reading Literature and Writing Argument 4th ed. Ed. Missy James and Alan Merickel. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2011. 187.
Rodriguez, Richard. ‘The Chinese in All of Us.’ Reading Literature and Writing Argumen 4th ed. Ed. Missy James and Alan Merickel. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2011. 230-236.
Kelley, Robin D. G.. ‘The People in Me.’ Reading Literature and Writing Argument 4th ed. Ed. Missy James and Alan Merickel. New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall, 2011. 483-485