Multiculturalism is the respect of cultural diversity in society. It is the idea that all men and women are equal in the United States. The question is; is the United States a multiculturalism country? United States as a whole, no I don’t think we are a multiculturalism country. Yes, we have Christmas (christen), Hanukkah (Jewish), and so many more; which are a diversity of celebrations we have here in the U.S. The reasons I say no is because I feel like the U.S. is more of a co-existence rather than a multiculturalism. We live with the differences of people but every day we judge people and what they do or believe in, we tear people down. We expect people to be like us to conform into our ways of living. So no as a whole or individuals we do not respect cultural diversity. The reasons multiculturalism is such a controversial issues for some people is because for one people are set in their ways and for tow the U.S. expects people to be like us. For example clothed rather than bare like Indians or not to clothed like Muslims. Yes we have people like that in the U.S. but how many of us stare at them and judge their cultural believes or try to convert them to something else. “In order to be supportive of anyone or anything, we need to have an idea or an interpretation of what we are supporting. It’s so important to have the right information before going to action on any side of an issue. Especially issues of race and equality. Two subjects that have stained this country since its beginning. Therefore it’s important to have accurate and appropriate information about an issue before we stand in favor of it. In terms of race and diversity, we need to be sure that we understand the principle behind being equal. Because a misinterpretation of this fact can lead to complicated misunderstandings. Within my definition of multiculturalism, the term interpretation in the meaning gives it ideal and perspective (dictionary.com, 2010). The way in which we should live together in this country is a matter of perspective and opinion. Some U.S. citizens feel that each race should have its own segregated community-workplaces, schools, stores and hospitals away from all other cultures, races and creeds. They feel the proper way to live is in segregation. They claim that all races and people are not created equal. It’s hard to believe that there are people out there who still share these ideals, together as a community. They share this same opposing opinion and perspective on racial equality. Truly believing that their race is superior to all others. For what reason, there could be many. Possibly because of the history of slavery, and then oppression in this country (dictionary.com. 2010). It’s hard to believe that someone could actually feel that things should have remained the way they were. Even physical appearance is a problem for some. There are people out there who actually think that because of skin color or hair texture, they have a right to superiority. The blood of Kings. Despite what is said in our countries declaration and other laws and doctrines, they actually believe their land has been invaded. And they have been wronged by the government. Calling themselves the original Americans. We all know that Native American Indians are the original inhabitants of this land, historically and scientifically.” (Warmack, 2010)
Social functionalism, social conflict and symbolic interaction are three sides to a social triangle that connect three different views equaling the concept of multiculturalism. Each of the three are perspectives, and each of the three represent a particular side of the whole idea of cultural diversity and equal standing. Social functionalism relates to the explanation of the term Left wing politics. Left wing politics in the United States represents human development and social change. As do left wing politicians. Leftist believe that class distinction will ultimately create a less than efficient society, right wing politicians support a class system (Ruypers John, 2005). The approach of these two political sides are examples of a social functionalist approach. The operation of all social patterns including class distinction, that create social consequences responsible for the operation of society as a whole (Macionis 2008, p. 15). When these politicians oppose each other’s views reacting every day in meetings and forums to try and solve our social problems and create solutions through legislative voting. These interactions are examples of social conflict approaches in their arguments. Arguments that initially say social patterns benefit some in this country, and not others (Macionis 2008, p. 11). The interactions and meetings these politicians are involved in, including the voting, are an examples of the term symbolic interaction. The everyday activity and lobbying of politicians is an example of a symbol that we relate to. What they do as politicians has meaning, and is recognized as a symbol to people of this country. It’s the seeing and doing every day in these meetings that is an important part of the functioning of our society (Macionis 2008, p. 4 ). (Warmack, 2010)
D. Warmack (2010); Multiculturalism. Retrieved from: http://www.articlesbase.com/culture-articles/multiculturalism-2939033.html
Macionis, J. J. (09/2008). Society: The Basics, 10th Edition. [VitalSource Bookshelf Online]. Retrieved from http://digitalbookshelf.argosy.edu/#/books/0558563139/