“I believe that culture shapes identity and defines possibility; that it teaches us who we are, what to believe, and how to dream. ” (xxii). – America Ferrera. American Like Me
American Like Me by America Ferrera, is a collection of first hand stories of notable friends such as Issa Rae, Liza Koshy, Michelle Kwan and more (including America Ferrera herself) who have experienced ignorance due to being “different” in culture and skin tone among other aspects. These stories are told by Immigrants, those of Immigrant families or people who had ties with cultures outside of their “American Identity”. I just started reading this book this morning, so as of right now I will only be posting my initial thoughts. HOWEVER, I have to say I absolutely LOVE this book so far! I just finished reading the first hand account of Reshma Saujani’s, the Founder of Girls Who Code life as an Indian-American from Schaumburg, Illinois. Reshma Saujani expresses her thoughts on growing up with parents who uprooted their life to the US, on an unexpected whim of having to leave India, their home, the place they know best. For Reshma, as an American born, having an Indian name in an American society gave her a second identity, one that did not necessarily help with growing into her personal identity.
Reshma expresses how her families sacrifices, name changes and life experiences have aided her in becoming who she is today and taking in every opportunity that comes her way.
America Ferrera along with several others, express their stories of breaking barriers and creating a universe that is accepting of others despite their families physical and geographical differences, among many other differences that one too many frown upon, even TODAY.
America Ferrera shares her personal story of feeling that she was different and how having the name America, did not help her personal identity, but that she loves her name dearly and it has plenty of meaning behind it. Meaning that many may get wrong. One’s name is a personal story within itself. For others to downplay the meaning or make assumptions, does not help either party.
The stories that America and her friends have put together, really puts the concepts of diversity and ignorance into perspective for all to see. In this day and age, we need to start speaking up about racism, immigration and ignorance and creating a CONVERSATION. ASK QUESTIONS, don’t assume or make judgements beyond your knowledge.
I absolutely love that this book is continuing the conversation. This is one that all people regardless of background, should read. Although these are personal stories, it never hurts to educate yourself on the lives of others and their experiences.
Buying this book is one step in the right direction of creating a conversation that needs to be had!
Ferrera, A. (2018). AMERICAN LIKE ME: Reflections on Life Between Cultures. GALLERY BOOKS.