Rachel Parson
Eth 125 Week 9
Dec. 18, 2012

This is what I had learned about Cultural Diversity in the United Stated to help me better understand and relate to others is people are different and coming from different backgrounds and culture, people are similar even though they are coming from all over the world. When I moved to Portland Maine about a year ago, I was surprised to learn there were many African Refugees that new to the United States; they had moved to moved for better benefits. They are presented in their African clothing, which are brightly colored somewhat sheets that they wrap around their bodies and heads, which is very appealing. When it was hot outside, I could not figure out how they could stand the heat. I then remembered that they are from Africa, and their clothing style is very important to them like it is here in the United States with our catchy styles and brand name products, we are very similar and the same, wanting to look fashionable. Learning that coming from a White Irish racial background, in Ireland there are two groups of Irish people. The Southern Irish people are Protestants and the Northern Ireland (ie Belfast, Donegal, Derry) are Catholics and have been many battles and bloodshed over this religious conflict that still although not in the same intensity as today, however, it is still going on and major issue. Irish people have a tendency to like to drink a large amount and know how to enjoy themselves. They are very kind giving as the expression says "they would give the shirt off their back". The weather in Portland Maine is very similar to Ireland, cold, and damp with a slight short summer. There is also many farm land here in Portland Maine, and you could smell the fire places burning just like they burn peet in Ireland. In 2050 , trends and immigrations will shape the demographics of the United States. I