To summarize my family's ethnics, we are Chinese immigrants. Before I came to the U.S, I obviously felt more closely tied to China rather than this foreign country. However, now I look at myself as a somewhat proud American as well as a part of the Chinese culture. I feel like my family's culture is mingled together by both Chinese and American ethnics. All of my ancestors are from China as far as I know. However, I gradually found myself more at home in the U.S rather than China because the influence of the American culture had greater impact on my family and me.
I think that who I am and how I identify myself are two different things in my life. I am Chinese and hold a Chinese passport but somehow identify myself as a American. I feel like I am synthesized into the growing American culture and begin to see myself differently culture wise. I believe that "heritage" and "tradition" is something that is passed on from generation to generation with the same ethnic background present throughout. In general, My parents and grandparents display some different values from me. My parents still consider themselves as Chinese, although they try to assimilate American culture. Even more can be said for my grandparents because they believe themselves to be proud Chinese citizens supporting the government. I don't think their ethnic value affected my life all that much because I want to learn from both cultures.
I can completely relate James! As a first generation American, my Iranian cultural background is something that is greatly influenced who I am, although I feel more close knitted with American customs. You said some great point here, such as although you may be influenced by the cultural background your family comes from does not directly affect what you identify yourself as. Great post!
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