There are various definitions of what it means to be an American. A person with American citizenship is an American. However, being an American is much more as it means being committed to and sharing American values and ideals (Elfenbein & Hanson, 2019). Being an American also means that one has freedom. Apart from the direct citizens or nationals, other people who would claim American nationality are permanent residents, expatriates, or dual citizens. American culture is diverse and encompasses various races, religions, cultures, and ethnicities.
The diverse cultures, religions, and races can be encompassed into a single national identity from a geographical perspective. This is by grouping them as American based on domicile. However, it is difficult to contain the diversity that makes America into one group. This is because it will bring about cultural imperialism favoring the dominant culture. It is also challenging to detach people from the traditions which make each culture unique. The diversity of American culture makes American culture very special, and apart from a geographical and political standpoint, it would be hard to merge diverse identities into a single identity.
Pushing for a single story or perspective is dangerous. The reason is that it gives the air from one point of view, usually favoring the victor or the storyteller. This will lead to a bias, and thus opinions will not be formed from a neutral perspective (Adichie, n.d.). A single story will also be incomplete due to several omissions that may occur from that point of view. A single story also prevents people from forming complex opinions about a topic or event.
Reference
Adichie, C. N. (n.d.). The danger of a single story. Www.ted.com. Web.
Elfenbein, C., & Hanson, P. (2019). What does it mean to be a “real” American?. The Washington Post. Web.