An Accent in the National Anthem
The article explores the complex identity of a Syrian immigrant in the United States who proudly identifies as American yet faces persistent reminders of being seen as 'other' due to his background. He embraces assimilation as a path to stability and opportunity, while still maintaining pride in his Syrian and Arab heritage. Despite legal classification as white, he experiences discrimination and questions about his belonging, especially during times of geopolitical tension.
- ▪The author's father immigrated from Syria decades ago, seeking safety and opportunity in the U.S. and embracing hard work as a path to a better life.
- ▪Although classified as white on government forms, he does not identify as white and has experienced discrimination, including being racially profiled by police.
- ▪He actively assimilated by shortening his name and modifying his accent, viewing integration as a personal strategy for success and acceptance.
- ▪Arab Americans' classification as white obscures disparities and does not protect them from prejudice, especially during Middle East conflicts.
- ▪He remains proud of his Syrian and Arab identity while desiring full, unqualified acceptance as an American.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
My dad stands when the national anthem plays at baseball games. He removes his faded baseball cap. He faces the flag. He doesn’t sing. “I stand,” he told me. “I’m proud of it.” But he worries that if he sings too loudly, someone might think he’s performing patriotism. If he stands too still, someone might question it. He wonders whether the people around him see sincerity or spectacle — whether they assume he’s “faking it” because he’s an immigrant. In a sea of jerseys and ball caps, his dark hair and tan complexion can set him apart — an immigrant from a part of the world the U.S. has long cast as its adversary. Hayden Chedid and her dad at a Colorado Rockies game in Denver on Sept. 26, 2015. (Provided by Hayden Chedid) My father came to the United States from Syria decades ago.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Colorado Sun.
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