The United States is known to be the great melting pot of cultures. After all, there are millions of people in this country that all have a different background, a different story of who they are and where they come from.

There are people in this nation that have the belief that because we are in America, everybody should assimilate to the American culture. Let me tell you why it is important to realize the significance of the culture of the country that we are in while still remembering where are roots are and where we come from.

In terms of helping the United States grow and maintain its high status as one of the most advanced and successful countries in the world, yes, everybody should at least make an effort in recognizing American traditions and customs. By participating in American culture, we are allowing ourselves to be immersed into a whole new world of knowledge and experiences that help us grow as a society.

However, do not forget that while you are embracing our rights as Americans and exercising your freedom of speech, religion and right to bare arms, you must also remember your background.

The United States gained the nickname of “melting pot” because of the many nations that are represented within this nation. The pilgrims on the Mayflower came from Europe, the southwest was once part of Mexico, and the west and east coast were a mixture of people from all over the world because of their borderline with the sea. The coasts provided access to immigrants from Japan, Ireland, Poland, Cuba, Vietnam, Germany, and many more.

All of these individuals came with their own customs and traditions from their countries and were then provided the opportunity, being in America now, to have even more traditions. The result of different cultures colliding is an incredible and unique being that is you.

It doesn’t matter if you are half German and half Irish or if you are half Mexican and half Cuban, what matters if that you keep your identity intact. Embrace your Hispanic culture; embrace the rich European history that European countries have. Embrace the differences between your culture and those of others.

Do not ever be ashamed of where your family comes from or be embarrassed of the centuries old traditions your grandparents have for the holidays or for birthdays. This is a key component in shaping who you are as a person and what you’ll be able to contribute to society.

It is crucial that, now more than ever, you embrace not only your own culture but the culture of those around you as well. We are all fans of tacos and margaritas on cinco de mayo, hot dogs and hamburgers on the fourth of July, beer and all things green on St. Patrick’s Day, so why not be fans of and celebrate all cultures as much as possible?

These celebrations are celebrations of life, prosperity and growth that should be promoted and enjoyed thoroughly by learning about why certain cultures do what they do. Everyone is unique in the sense that no one culture is the same. Embrace and take advantage of that uniqueness that comes with being a part of many traditions and having a rich cultural background.