I have been living in America all my life, and I was born here. Growing up, I never thought twice about my belonging here because I knew I did. My friends trusted me, they loved me, and the people around me welcomed me with open arms. Who knew that in a few years everything would change? But did they really change?

Yes, sometimes people stare at my family in wonder, maybe thinking where are we from or who are we. But then sometimes, there are some uncomfortable stares where it feels like we do not belong. How scary is it to feel like that right in your own home!

Often times, my parents would take me back to their homeland, and I would get the same stares there as if even though I speak their language and dress to fit in, I still do not belong completely. I took no heed of it because in my heart, I am American. America is my home first, then comes everything else.

To be completely honest, my parents are just as American as I am too because they have been living for over 20 years. They have done their university here, graduated with a degree, started their own business and built a house for their family. I do not see how much more American that can get. We attend all the American holiday services as well as invite our neighbors to our cultural celebrations. And you know what? Our neighbors and friends do not think twice about joining in.

I am not writing this to say something against anyone, but rather to inform that there are people like me whether they be Muslim, "brown," African American, Mexican American, Women, or anyone else. I am here to inform you that I am American and so are you. And no one can take that right from you because this is your right to be here.

I am here to tell you that people can wonder where you came from and they can even speak out and say hurtful things, but you cannot back down because this is your home. You belong here as much as they do. But do not go and fight back in violence, no do not become what they are. Show them that you are better than that, that you can be free and friendly and just as much their neighbor as anyone else who lives in America. And most importantly keep it in your mind and heart always: I am American.