Dif-Nations https://www.nhhc.org/ A blog about the various cultures of the Americas Thu, 20 Jul 2023 08:02:51 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.1 https://www.nhhc.org/wp-content/uploads/cropped-logo-32x32.png Dif-Nations https://www.nhhc.org/ 32 32 American Culture You NEED to Know https://www.nhhc.org/american-culture-you-need-to-know/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 13:53:54 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=174 America is the country that everyone is excited about, and everyone knows about it. Whether […]

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America is the country that everyone is excited about, and everyone knows about it. Whether it is a proud patriot or a tourist, it is considered one of the major places to visit in the world. Despite it being a rather young country with only over 200 years of history, it has cemented itself as an influential habitat. There are a lot of parts of America that seem rather foreign. The way people act there, how they talk, and how they see the world can often be seen as an alien land. Here, we can tell you the most important parts of American culture you have to know.

Being Large and in Charge

When you look at the US on the world map, you can instantly see how big it is compared to other countries. With up to 50 individual states, the country is vast and full of iconic locations. The amount of space they have is what leads to the mentality of “being large.” This goes into their food, buildings, vehicles, and even parties. SUVs can pack an entire family of six in them. You can expect long road trips across huge deserts and wildlife. To an American, being large means matching up to the rest of the world.

You may have already heard about the supersize portions of fast food. Almost every US restaurant can serve a supersized portion of any kind of meal. The burgers can have more meat patties all stacked together. A portion of fries can be enough to share between three people. There are even competitions based in some restaurants that challenge customers to eat something massive. It’s so popular that you may have even seen TV shows based on it.

Can I Get That To-Go?

You may have heard the phrase, “Can I take this to-go?”. This is a common phrase used a lot in America based on a concept they believe they came up with. A lot of food you order can easily be asked to be taken on the move. The food place will happily pack up your food or whatever you have left, neatly package it, and place it in a bag. You can enjoy your food later or store it in the refrigerator for another day. While used in other parts of the world, it’s quite a common sight to see people with cups of coffee sealed up for their convenience.

The whole concept is different from just “take-out.” When you order take-out, this is originally planned to be taken on the move. Ordering something “to-go” means taking your meal elsewhere when originally you planned to eat it indoors. According to a recent study from DoSomething.org, apparently, 20% of all Americans will eat their meals in the car. This goes hand-in-hand with the busy lifestyle of the American workplace. Taking meals and eating them anywhere is one of their greatest strengths as a society.

Go Sports

You will always find a love of sports in any part of the globe. America, on the other hand, builds an entirely separate culture around its sports. They celebrate sports teams on a whole other level compared to other countries. The sports stars are said to be the most famous celebrities in all 50 states. Many of which have influence and power that rivals politicians. The four major sports followed in the US include:

  • American football;
  • Baseball;
  • Basketball;
  • Hockey.

Each one has a rich history in how it influenced American culture in its own way. Baseball saw the rise of children’s “little leagues.” Basketball has founded many fashion trends in local neighbourhoods.

Finally, there is one of the greatest shows on Earth that originates from the American Football Super Bowl. The Super Bowl Halftime Show is one of the most-watched events on TV. There are over 100 million viewers who tune in just to watch the Halftime Show and not even the game itself. Nowadays, the Halftime Show will showcase the latest movie trailers, special guest appearances, and superstar performances. Having a famous singer perform the American national anthem before a game is common in this country. This includes performers like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and Lady Gaga.

Importance of Diversity

In its history, America was often seen as a “promised land.” It is a country founded on immigration, after all. You can find a mixture of all different races, sexualities, genders, and other cultures all mixed together. With how large the country is, you can always find communities to whatever tribe you feel connected to. From the workplace to your local bar, there is always someone new to meet and give you a fresh new perspective. It is always important to respect other cultures, even those you don’t belong to. Everyone needs to work together to help America grow into a more loving and tolerant place.

It is also a place where many civil rights movements take place. A whole civil war was started in Abraham Lincoln’s time that was a means to end slavery. The Stonewall Riot was the starting point of Pride parades to support the LGBTQIA+ communities. These protests and movements continue even to this day. Now more than ever, people are still fighting for the right to make a real difference in this country. Not just in America but eventually the entire world. Whether it’s through art, music, or inspiring speeches.

American Holidays

America has their own traditions and holidays they celebrate on their own. The one everyone thinks of is Thanksgiving. This is a national holiday where Americans have a huge dinner with a Turkey as the centrepiece. It is a time when we give thanks and count our blessings for the beginning of the harvest. Americans invite their whole families over for a huge dinner and celebration. On the flip side, you may have heard about how this certain holiday takes place during a controversial period of American history. This is a heavily debated topic in recent times but remains as such.

There is also Independence Day, on the 4th of July. This is a federal holiday in which the whole country celebrates the day the Declaration of Independence was made. This official document marked the beginning of the United States of America. This legally made them their own country after the American Revolution. The best way Americans celebrate this holiday is with fairs, fireworks, and huge parades. Many of which pay tribute to the founding fathers and their actions in helping the land become completely independent. Below is a list of other American celebrations to learn more about:

  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day;
  • Groundhog Day;
  • Memorial Day;
  • Labor Day;
  • Presidents Day;
  • Black Friday.

Viva Las Vegas

In the 21st Century and earlier, gambling is a huge part of the American experience. They even have an entire city that is based around the enjoyment of gambling. Las Vegas was founded in Nevada and has the most casinos anywhere on the whole planet. A lot of tourists come to Las Vegas to try their luck and have as much fun as possible. You can expect to see lots of Bachelor/Bachelorette parties in “sin city.” Casinos can be found everywhere in America, other than Nevada. You can find places in Atlanta City, Louisiana, Illinois, and more.

There are many movies and TV shows based on American gambling. It is quite ingrained into the culture as it’s all about taking risks. This is a mindset that many “traditional Americans” keep hold of as part of their identity. Below are a few casino recommendations:

CasinoLocation
Atlantis CasinoNevada
MGM CasinoLas Vegas
Odawa CasinoMississippi
Turning Stone ResortNew York

 The Art of Speaking Your Mind

This is something that truly separates America from the rest of the world, even in other Western-based countries like the UK or Canada. Americans are often known as “loud and proud.” They are seen as people who openly speak their minds and make demands if they believe it’s their right. This is true even in the workplace. While some cultures require constant respect for those in higher positions, America is the birthplace of unions. Quite often, will you get an employee that speaks up against their supervisor if they believe they are being mistreated or not paid enough?

Whether or not it is the right thing to do, is left to your own opinion. Individuality, after all, is America’s greatest freedom.

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Gambling in the 21st Century: Is It the New Cultural Norm? https://www.nhhc.org/gambling-in-the-21st-century-is-it-the-new-cultural-norm/ Wed, 12 Jul 2023 06:28:09 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=169 Gambling has consistently been a contentious subject among many parties. People consider it as a […]

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Gambling has consistently been a contentious subject among many parties. People consider it as a source of revenue at times and as a vice at other times. It may be a light-hearted hobby for some while becoming a debilitating addiction for others. The way gambling has adapted in the modern world has helped normalize it in a way that it becomes accessible for all. Along with the proper legislation, gambling can be enjoyed almost anywhere. The emphasis is on “almost,” as some countries still frown upon it to this day.

The US is one clear example of how gambling has become so normalized. Its stance on many, once illicit, activities has now become a form of entertainment and public service. This includes the use of drugs and alcohol in some states. As you may already know, they have an entire city that is based on the joys of gambling. Las Vegas is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the whole world. How did gambling become such a popular service, and when did it become a new cultural norm? We can shed light on this development that has been slowly growing in the 21st century.

Just How Long Has Gambling Been Active?

If we were to look at the entire history of gambling, we will find remnants of it in many parts of the globe. The three main originators of gambling can be the countries of China, Greece, and Egypt. The first record of gambling was traced back to 2300 B.C. While the games would have been a lot simpler, people would still gamble on what they had in the hopes of turning a profit. It was China that first introduced playing cards into gambling. While these are considered recorded instances, some of these activities weren’t technically legal.

The first legal establishment to house gambling was the first casino ever made. This was opened in Italy in 1638. It opened in Venice, and its building is still seen today. With the concept of a casino invented, it was time to capitalize on this. Many countries discovered how much money they could make from a casino, so they decided to build their own in various states. Lotteries were some of the first legal gambling establishments built in the US. The list of states that allowed them were:

  • Nevada
  • California
  • New Jersey
  • Louisiana
  • Illinois

The first is where Las Vegas was created and became the notable home of American casino gambling.

The Modern Age of Gambling

Currently, the US and its neighbouring country of Canada have thousands of casinos operating. It is said that they bring in over $25 billion every year. This includes both the use of land-based and online casinos. While land-based casinos became popular destinations for tourists, the rise of online casinos changed things. The 1990s were starting to get a lot of new development in the technological department. New operations were being made that could allow online transactions and documentation. The rise of computers changed everything for the world and would continue to do so.

More than 600 online casinos were created within the span of just five short years. This was a way for people to gamble from the comfort of their homes instead of going to a real casino. The most common form was online slot machines. They were easy to learn and fast enough to make a quick buck if needed. It wasn’t long until they started making as much money as land-based casinos. This became even more apparent when they started offering exclusive bonuses. Terms like free spins no deposit no wager became commonplace and acted as promotions to help bring in more customers. The oldest online casinos can be found below:

Online CasinoYear Founded
The Gaming Club1994
InterCasino1996
Intertops1996
English Harbour Casino1997

It took some time for online gambling to be considered legal compared to regular casinos. The legalisation was a lot trickier since gambling could be permitted with fewer restrictions. At the very least, potential players can gamble without supervision since it can be done at home. The Online Gambling Enforcement Act once prohibited the use of banks to allow transactions in gambling. Only in 2018 was gambling made more flexible online with the fall of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act. This allowed individual US states to create their own gambling restrictions and legalise what they wanted. This included online casinos.

Those Against Gambling

While some may view gambling as a huge success in the US, there was a time when gambling was still illegal for many years. Some people, even today, still believe in banning all forms of gambling. The first major reason why governments would ban gambling was due to financial gain. While a form of entertainment, a government will most likely only legalize gambling if they can make a profit from it. Otherwise, they would happily make it illegal if there were enough vocal voices against it. Sadly, the well-being of people who experience gambling is the farthest from their minds.

A lot of gambling establishments only introduce more services if they get given the approval of their governing body. Some forms of gambling are considered more “ethical” than others. For example, lotteries were the first form of gambling introduced to the US. Before casinos, this was considered safer since all a person would do was purchase a ticket. This results in either a win or a loss. However, casinos offer players more choices to gamble away their money. This is considered more dangerous as it can be the leading cause of gambling addiction.

One of the major opposition to gambling is mainly religious groups. This mindset dates back to historical moments. It was often considered a sin in some religions. They believed that gambling would lead to more potential crime and corrupt the individual who takes part in it. Even now, you can sometimes see protests against casinos backed with evidence that more crime surrounds these establishments. They truly believe that gambling is harmful to society itself. They will stop at nothing to try and make it illegal in as many states of the US as possible. However, it is ultimately the current government that is in charge of these matters.

A Staple of American Culture

As mentioned earlier, the recognition of Las Vegas is considered a major milestone in general gambling. Basing an entire city on the pleasure of gambling has helped cement it in history as an enjoyable pastime. Having a chance to win money can help anyone achieve their dreams. The thrill of taking a risk in the hopes of having more in life is what makes gambling so enticing. This is what a lot of Americans base their lifestyle on. Taking chances and coming out on top is what makes America “great” from some perspectives.

You can definitely see this in pop culture media. Some examples include:

  • Movies
  • Books
  • TV shows

Gambling movies are among the most popular, creating high-stake dramas and thrilling entertainment. From the iconic “The Gambler” in 1974 to the action-packed “Casino Royale” starring the illustrious character of James Bond. In many ways, pop culture romanticizes the thrill of gambling to a point where everyone sees it as fun. Other films do try to paint a picture of the dangers of gambling. For some, this can make it more enticing.

Conclusion: Gambling Keeps Moving Up

Currently, we can conclude that gambling is globally accepted as one of the most popular forms of adult entertainment. It can be a great source of money for those in charge and for those who become players. Occasionally you will get those that try to cheat the system, but security in gambling has improved immensely. Despite concerns over the dangers of gambling, this remains a vocal minority and doesn’t represent the general public. Security has always tried to improve to keep players safe. Both when they lay in real casinos and when playing online.

The danger of gambling addiction is still the main concern for some. Fortunately, this has also improved greatly. Many gambling charities and organizations have helped improve the well-being of gamblers. They use tools to help them combat gambling-related problems and recover. Examples include GamCare, GamblersAnonymous, and BeGambleAware. These websites are available for anyone and can offer a multitude of services to look into. Even casinos themselves are improving ways to help players relax and be safe before spending their money, whether it is introducing new payment methods to protect transactions or placing limits on player spending.

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Working with Culture: Exploring the World Through Your Career https://www.nhhc.org/working-with-culture-exploring-the-world-through-your-career/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 08:21:04 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=160 Have you ever wanted to explore different cultures and traditions around the world? Or are […]

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Have you ever wanted to explore different cultures and traditions around the world? Or are you interested in learning about different cultures and applying this knowledge to your professional life? 

In today’s globalized world, there is a wide range of jobs dealing with culture that you can explore. From teaching to journalism and beyond, here are some of the best jobs dealing with culture. 

Discover and get hired for the jobs you want

We all have our dream jobs in mind, but getting hired for these positions can be challenging. You need to stand out from the crowd and prove you’re qualified for the job. 

Here are some tips from experts of resume writing and job search help on how to get hired for your dream job:

  • Know what you want. Before you start applying for jobs, take some time to think about what you’re looking for in a position and how your skills match up with what the company needs.
  • Discover companies that are hiring. Search online or ask friends if they know of any openings at any companies they know of. 
  • Apply for jobs only after researching them thoroughly. If a company has open positions, it’s likely because they need help filling them quickly — don’t waste their time by applying if you’re not qualified for the job or haven’t done enough research about what it entails.

We present to your attention a list of works related to the cultural direction:

  • Teacher 

One of the most popular jobs related to culture is teaching. It allows you to work with students from all over the world, giving them an understanding of different customs and beliefs. 

As a teacher or tutor, you might be asked to teach classes on languages, cultural studies, history, or even travel writing. You can also get involved in creating educational programs that focus on other countries or regions around the world. 

  • Journalist 

Journalism offers another great way to explore different cultures. As a journalist, you will have the opportunity to travel around the globe and document your experiences for readers back home. 

You could write about food, festivals, or arts and crafts from various cultures. 

You could also use your platform as a journalist to spread awareness about specific social issues or injustices occurring in certain parts of the world that need attention. 

  • International Relations 

In addition to teaching and journalism, working in international relations is another excellent option if you’re looking for jobs dealing with culture. 

As an international relations specialist, you could work in fields such as diplomacy or foreign policy analysis. This will give you access to global networks where you can learn more about how other countries operate and gain insights into their respective cultures and societies.

If this field interests you, then consider taking courses such as political science or international law that can help prepare you for a career in international relations.  

  • Actor

Actors can be found in theater productions, television shows, and commercials. They also work in film industries around the world. 

Actors must have good looks as well as a talent because they’re often required to perform a variety of roles. Actors play a variety of roles on stage, in motion pictures or on television. 

They can interpret the written word, create characters and perform dialogue from different cultures.

  • Artist

Artists are creative people and can work anywhere in the world. They work in various media, such as painting, sculpture, photography, and even architecture. 

Artists can find employment in advertising agencies, design studios, galleries, and museums. Most of their work is freelance, so they often need to travel around looking for a job.

  • Cultural anthropologist

Cultural anthropologists specialize in studying cultures that are not their own. They may live among a group for several years, learning its language and customs and observing its behavior. 

They also work with museums and other organizations that preserve cultural heritage or promote cultural exchange between groups around the world. 

Many cultural anthropologists work as teachers, researchers or museum curators after completing their Ph.D.s. Some enter government service or work for non-profit organizations that promote international understanding through education programs or disaster relief efforts.

  • Museum curator

Art, history, and culture are all intertwined, and a museum curator is a person who specializes in the preservation of art. Curators work in museums, galleries, and even private collections to ensure that art is appropriately displayed and preserved for future generations.

Curators can be responsible for everything from organizing exhibits to researching new acquisitions. 

They often work closely with conservators and exhibit designers to ensure that the museum’s collection stays up-to-date and relevant. 

Many curators have advanced degrees in art history or related fields, such as archeology or anthropology.

Conclusion 

If exploring different cultures is something that excites you, then there are plenty of jobs dealing with culture available for people from all backgrounds and levels of experience.

From teaching classes on language or cultural studies to working in international relations or journalism — these are just some of many careers where working with culture is at the heart of what they do! 

With so many opportunities available within this field, it’s worth researching these areas before deciding which one is right for you!

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Finding Unique Employment Opportunities in the Culture https://www.nhhc.org/finding-unique-employment-opportunities-in-the-culture/ Thu, 09 Feb 2023 07:52:16 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=156 If you’re looking for a job that allows you to express your creativity and make […]

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If you’re looking for a job that allows you to express your creativity and make a difference within the community, why not consider finding employment opportunities in the culture sector? With so many different types of jobs available, there’s no doubt that you’ll be able to find something that aligns with your interests and skills. Here’s an overview of some of the unique and cool culture jobs available if you decide to pursue a career in culture. 

Jobs That Get You Into The Heart Of Culture

Jobs in the culture are often more exciting than other jobs. You get to be around other people who share your passion for creating and sharing art, so it’s easy to develop close friendships with coworkers. And working, for example, in the arts can allow you to be creative and see your work appreciated by others.

If you’re looking for a career that not only pays the bills but also allows you to explore your creative side and network with some of the best people in the industry, then many jobs fit the bill. Here are just a few of the most popular:

  • Museum Curator or Director

If art and history are your passions, a career as a museum curator or director could be perfect for you. As a curator or director, you will be responsible for organizing and managing various collections, exhibitions, and public programs. You may also be responsible for researching objects, creating educational materials, and planning events. Additionally, depending on the museum you work at, you may also be involved in fundraising activities. 

  • Cultural Programmer 

Do you have experience organizing cultural events? If so, consider applying for positions as a cultural programmer. In this role, you’ll be tasked with planning events like music festivals or art exhibits. This can involve anything from developing relationships with artists to promoting events through social media campaigns. It’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your creative abilities while ensuring community members have access to unique experiences they wouldn’t otherwise have had!       

  • Artist

The artist is the heart and soul of your culture. Artists are the ones who tell stories, create art and bring people together. They are the ones who make you feel things you never knew existed. They inspire you to be more than what you were and help you see things differently. You will have an artist on your team who will bring new ideas to life daily, ensuring that your culture is always fresh, exciting, and energetic.

  • Writer

The writer is the keeper of the culture. The writer is the author, the creator, and the artist. They are often a mix of artists, entrepreneurs and business strategists. They create content for a wide variety of audiences and formats. Writers come in all shapes and sizes — from authors to journalists and bloggers — but they all share one thing in common: they can communicate ideas clearly and express them creatively through words alone. Writing is a job that requires a lot of creativity and imagination. It also requires lots of research and attention to detail. This type of job is both fun and challenging. Writers can work in many different fields and write on various topics. 

  • Culture Photographer 

Culture photographers document local cultures, traditions, and customs around the world in an effort to preserve them for future generations. The work of culture photographers can range from portraits of children to landscapes and still lives, but each genre has its own particular challenges and opportunities. Culture photography is often highly specialized, but it also requires an intimate knowledge of your subject matter — this makes it an excellent career choice if you enjoy learning about new cultures!

  • Tour Guide 

Tour guides are the ultimate culture ambassadors. They can tell you about your chosen locale’s history, lead you through a museum, or just show you around a city. Tour guides can be paid, but they can also be volunteers. You don’t need a college degree or previous experience as long as you have good people skills and a love for travel. Most tour guides start out working for local companies and then move on to more extensive tours. You can take tours in many different fields, such as food, art and history. If you have a specialism, then try to find an organization that needs someone with that knowledge.

Conclusion 

An incredible career in the cultural sphere is an enriching experience because it allows individuals to explore their own creativity while giving back to their local communities. 

Countless types of jobs are available in this field, ranging from museum curators and directors to cultural programmers and photographers. So if this sounds like something that interests you, start exploring today! Who knows — you might just land yourself a unique job opportunity in the world of culture!

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How diversity makes the United States stronger https://www.nhhc.org/how-diversity-makes-the-united-states-stronger/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 13:45:04 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=153 The United States of America is an incredible melting pot of cultures and religions. From […]

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The United States of America is an incredible melting pot of cultures and religions. From the Founding Fathers to modern-day immigrants, our nation has been shaped by diverse backgrounds and beliefs. This unique quilt of cultures makes our country strong and resilient; it’s what makes us special. Let’s explore how this mix of cultures has made us who we are today.

A melting pot of cultures and religions

The Founding Fathers laid the groundwork for a nation built on freedom of religion and speech, which gave rise to a variety of traditions coming from all over the world. By the mid-1800s, thousands of immigrants were arriving in America every year, bringing with them their customs and languages. Chinese laborers helped build the Transcontinental Railroad, while Jewish immigrants found success in business in New York City. Irish immigrants poured into Boston seeking jobs, while Italians settled into cities like Philadelphia and Chicago.

This influx of new ideas created a vibrant tapestry that still exists today in many ways – from food to music to sports. We can enjoy dishes like tacos or sushi that are inspired by other countries’ cuisines; we can listen to jazz or hip-hop that were born out of African American culture, and we can watch sports like soccer that were brought over by immigrants years ago. All these cultural elements blend together to create something truly unique about America – our diversity is what binds us together as one nation under God.

As Americans, it’s important that we recognize how lucky we are to have such a rich mixture of cultures living among us. We should take the time to appreciate each other’s differences – they make up the fabric that makes our country great! As author Toni Morrison wrote in her book “Beloved,” “Definitions belong to the definers, not the defined…You got to go there [to find yourself] because no one else can tell you who you are.”

Closer look to an American diversity

Now let’s take a closer look at how this diversity is reflected through four key aspects of American life.

Food. The United States has an incredibly eclectic culinary culture that is rooted in its melting pot of immigrants from all over the world. Take Mexican cuisine, for example; tacos and burritos are popular staples made up of ingredients like beans and rice that have been adopted by Americans everywhere. In addition to Mexican food, you can also find delicious dishes from other countries, such as Italy and China, in many parts of the US.

Music. America is known for its vast array of musical genres, ranging from jazz to hip-hop and R&B to rock & roll – not to mention country music or folk! This variety helps create a unique soundscape in each region of the country, making it easy for people to find their own musical niche regardless of their background or preferences. Music also brings us together; just think about how often you hear songs on the radio or during live performances that unite everyone in a shared love for certain tunes!

Art. America’s visual art scene is just as varied as its music scene. There are galleries filled with paintings from local artists as well as internationally renowned ones; art installations found in parks or public spaces; sculptures crafted out of wood or metal; photographs capturing everyday life in cities across our nation; murals depicting important moments in history; and much more! This incredible array of artwork celebrates diversity while also providing viewers with an opportunity to learn more about various cultures and experiences they may not be familiar with.

Literature. Literature has long been one way for people to gain insight into different perspectives and opinions. American authors have produced some truly amazing works over the years – from classic novels like To Kill a Mockingbird to contemporary pieces such as The Hate U Give – tackling complex issues related to race, class, gender, sexuality, immigration status, religion (and much more!) head-on. By reading books written by authors representing various backgrounds, we can gain a greater understanding of different points-of-view while expanding our knowledge base overall.

The benefits of embracing diversity

When we embrace diversity, it allows us to create an environment where everyone feels included and respected. This is especially important for people from minority groups who have been historically marginalized and discriminated against. Everyone should feel like they can express their unique identity without fear of judgment or prejudice. When we come together as one nation despite our differences, it creates a powerful sense of unity that can lead to amazing accomplishments on both small and large scales.

In addition, embracing diversity also helps us gain insight into different experiences and perspectives that may differ from our own. It helps us learn about the history behind different cultures so that we can have a better understanding of the unique struggles faced by those communities. Understanding these issues can help us create more effective solutions that benefit all Americans regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or economic status.

Finally, embracing diversity enables us to form meaningful connections with people from all walks of life, which could lead to long-term friendships or even business partnerships down the road. These relationships are invaluable because they allow us to gain knowledge from outside sources, which can open up new opportunities for growth and progress on both personal and professional levels.

Conclusion.

America is a beautiful tapestry composed of many threads woven together by its citizens’ diverse backgrounds and beliefs – from various ethnicities and religions to various socioeconomic statuses – and it’s important for all Americans to recognize this fact in order for our country to reach its full potential as a unified nation.

Together, let’s celebrate our diversities while working towards a common goal of creating an equitable society where everyone has equal access to resources and opportunities regardless of their background or identity!

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The rich history of the Polish diaspora in the United States https://www.nhhc.org/the-rich-history-of-the-polish-diaspora-in-the-united-states/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 11:28:43 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=150 We’ve all heard about the varied and vibrant cultures that have been part of the […]

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We’ve all heard about the varied and vibrant cultures that have been part of the American tapestry for generations, yet one of them may come as a surprise to many – Polish culture. Dating back hundreds of years, the Polish diaspora in the United States has played an important role throughout US history.

From their introduction over 300 years ago in Jamestown to their impact during World Wars I and II, learn how generations of Poles fought to preserve their identities while contributing significantly to life in America today.

A look back at the first Polish immigrants to the US.

The first Poles that arrived on American soil were members of Captain John Smith’s Jamestown expedition in 1608. However, it wasn’t until 1804 that significant numbers of Poles began migrating to America. In 1804, Prussian forces invaded Poland, resulting in thousands of refugees fleeing their homeland. Many of these refugees sought refuge in America, with some estimates suggesting as many as 6,000 Poles settled in the United States during this period.

In addition to those who fled Prussian forces, many Poles chose America over other countries due to its reputation for religious tolerance and economic opportunity. By 1860, there were more than 100,000 Poles living in America – a number that would continue to grow throughout the 19th century and into the 20th century due to increased immigration from Poland and other Eastern European countries.

By 1920, more than 1 million Poles had immigrated to America – a number that would continue rising throughout most of the 20th century. Today, there are an estimated 9 million Americans who claim Polish ancestry – making them one of the largest ethnic groups in the United States.

The causes of the Polish emigration in the 20th century

The main cause that sparked the Polish Great Emigration was political unrest within Poland. The country had endured a long history of foreign domination by countries like Prussia, Russia, and Austria-Hungary. This meant that Poles were unable to practice self-governance or have any real say in how their country was run. Additionally, these foreign powers imposed taxes on goods and services, which made it difficult for people to make a living in Poland. As a result of all these factors, many Poles decided that their best option was to leave the country in search of a better life abroad.

The influx of Polish immigrants into other countries had both positive and negative effects on those nations. On the one hand, it provided an opportunity for Poles to escape poverty and find jobs with higher wages than they could get back home. This was beneficial for them but also beneficial for businesses that wanted to employ low-cost labor with good work ethics, which is what most Polish immigrants had to offer. On the other hand, however, some countries experienced an increase in anti-immigrant sentiment due to fear that foreigners would take away jobs from local people or bring crime and disease into their communities.

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How WWII changed the lives of Polish Americans

At the start of World War II, there were an estimated two million people of Polish descent living in America – a number that more than doubled by 1950 due to immigration during and after the war. Many of these individuals were refugees who had fled their homeland after it was invaded by Nazi Germany in 1939. These Poles found themselves with limited resources, little money, and few possessions; they often had to rely on support from other members of the diaspora community or American charities for basic necessities like food and clothing.

Many Polish-Americans volunteered to join the armed forces during WWII – both as soldiers serving overseas and as laborers stateside. The soldiers who served in Europe risked their lives fighting alongside Allied forces against Nazi Germany, while those stationed at home provided vital support for military operations through manufacturing arms and ammunition or providing medical services. For both groups, their service was instrumental in securing victory for Allied forces by helping to bring about Germany’s eventual surrender in 1945.

The legacy of World War II is still felt today by those with a connection to Poland – both within America’s borders and around the world. For those living in the US, it has meant a deeper sense of solidarity between members of the diaspora community as they come together to celebrate shared cultural heritage while honoring those who made sacrifices during wartime. Additionally, it has led to increased awareness among non-Poles about Poland’s history and culture as well as its struggles under Nazi occupation during WWII.

Conclusion

Though the polish diaspora has a long and complicated history, their contributions to the United States have been immense. From their humble beginnings as some of the first immigrants to America to their present-day notoriety as hard workers and cultural pillars in American society, polish people have truly made a name for themselves. In spite of countless hardships faced throughout the generations, they remain an integral part of the fabric that makes up this country. The next time you enjoy a slice of Polish kielbasa or platzki potato pancakes, remember the rich history and culture that contributed to its deliciousness!

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Mexican Culture in the United States https://www.nhhc.org/mexican-culture/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 14:48:07 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=93 Throughout the history of the resettlement of Mexican migrants in America, Kansas City has always been a hotbed of settlement for Mexican migrants.

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Throughout the history of the resettlement of Mexican migrants in America, Kansas City has always been a hotbed of settlement for Mexican migrants. As early as 1830, descendants of Mexicans lived in the area, beginning with the formation of the new republic of Mexico. Trade routes through the Santa Fe Trail led many Mexicans to settle in the Kansas and Missouri territories. From 1900 to 1914, the Southern Rail Company of Kansas City built a rail line, creating a direct route from the Gulf of Mexico to Kansas City. Many Mexican workers participated in this feat of connecting the country by railroad. Workers who settled in the Kansas City area formed many of the first Hispanic communities in Argentina.

Family
Spending very little time studying the Mexican family and about it makes it easy to see that it is important to their culture. Throughout more than a century of entry into the United States and forced removal due to racist immigration policies, the integrity of the family and family value system has never been compromised for Mexican descendants. Family units and structures tend to be larger in number. Parents and elders are treated with a high degree of respect, which is reciprocated by love for the youth of the family. The need for strong family bonds during the experience of the so-called person of color here in America has indeed contributed to the strength and bond between family members of Mexican American households. According to Rosa Gillis, a home interview was conducted as part of this study.

The importance of family is very tangible when you experience Mexican-American viewpoints. It is very common to see generations of families living in close proximity to each other, in the same neighborhood, or in the same household. This behavior reflects the level of support that the family structure in Mexican culture gives to each family member. Family members also very often support each other financially when needed. In 2014 alone, billions of dollars were sent from the United States to Mexico in the form of remittances alone. The economic power in the American paradigm held by Mexican descendants is growing rapidly. The traditional structure of the Mexican family is a patriarchal society in which the mother is at the center of most domestic spaces and tasks.

America is a very diverse place; it is a country where many different cultures come to the United States, and the overall culture is a melting pot of many different cultures in one. Generations of Mexican families have simulated American society and also created a subculture within the context of the family structure because of interracial marriages. Through this blending of cultures within the family structure, the value of a cohesive family was preserved, illustrating the importance of the family to the descendants of Mexicans living in America. It is typical in Mexican family culture for individual family members to place the needs of the collective family above the individual needs of the self.

Culture
Perhaps the most important aspect of the Mexican experience with regard to the impact of immigration on Mexican-Americans is the persistence of culture, including but not limited to language, food, family structure, spirituality, music, holidays, and a strong pride in work. For generations of families who migrated from Mexico and settled in the United States and who assimilated with Americans, the Spanish language persisted and was spoken within the family or among other Spanish-speaking people. The retention of Spanish by immigrants from Mexico and other Latin American countries has had some impact on life in America, as bilingual aid has become standard procedure in many industries.

Mexican Americans have also brought a new food culture to the United States. Some are more traditional Mexican food, and other Mexican-style dishes have an American twist. In supermarkets, it is very common to see a section specifically for certain Mexican- or Hispanic-inspired foods.

For many Mexican-American families, preserving the Quinceanerais tradition is not only of paramount importance, but an unforgettable experience for a lifetime. The Quiceanera is a celebration of a young girl entering womanhood. The party/ball is held to celebrate the 15 years of a young lady’s life. It is customary for families to band together financially to host the event, as the celebrations can be quite extravagant and expensive. Each individual member is given the responsibility and task, another great example of family structure and its support for each other.

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Things to know about U.S. culture https://www.nhhc.org/things-to-know-about-us-culture/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 14:34:32 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=87 While other countries emphasize practicality, compactness and brevity, Americans often prefer big and luxurious.

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Think big.
While other countries emphasize practicality, compactness and brevity, Americans often prefer big and luxurious. Don’t be surprised by the huge trucks and massive SUVs scattered around parking lots. Americans like their space. To them, big can be practical. The large-scale mindset also applies to American food: most restaurants serve very large portions. It’s not uncommon for someone to order a hearty meal and then take the leftovers home as leftovers.

Some restaurant meals are also meant to be shared. If you are going to eat out and are unsure of the portion size, you can ask the waiter what they recommend! However, there is a counter-movement against the “the bigger the better” mentality. Many people, especially young urbanites, are buying eco-friendly cars, buying local and healthy foods, and trying to reduce consumption and waste as much as possible.

The “with you” concept of eating on the go
Most Americans are always on the go. They seem to be frequently running from one meeting to the next, going to and from work, picking up children, running errands, going to business meetings and social events. Because Americans are constantly on the road, there is often not enough time to have a formal lunch. A common expression you’ll hear is, “24 hours in a day isn’t enough!”

Sports
Many Americans love and follow sports, the most popular of which are soccer, baseball, and basketball. You will find that the main difference between your home country and the United States is that there are far fewer soccer fans in the United States than in other countries. Sports can be a huge unifying and dividing factor among Americans. During soccer and basketball season, you may see your peers engage in fierce arguments about whose team is better. Soccer is fun to watch, but it can be quite difficult to follow, but you can ask your American colleagues to help you. You can even see why more than 100 million Americans watched the 2017 Super Bowl!

Competition
Like many cultures, Americans thrive on competition. From an early age, children are encouraged to work hard and try their best to succeed at a task, especially in academics, sports, and other hobbies. Universities tend to be very competitive, so parents prepare their children ahead of time for admission. Some high schools and even preschools have competitive admissions, and even Girl Scouts compete to sell more cookies during fundraising campaigns to earn great prizes. You’ll find that many Americans are also ambitious. They are active, and if they want to accomplish something, they go for it. They don’t tend to sit back and wait for others to step up.

Political correctness (or being “PC”)
Because the U.S. is so diverse, there is a common practice of always respecting other cultures and people’s differences, especially when communicating and expressing your ideas. The basic rule is not to use words or expressions that could be construed as offensive, no matter whose company you work for. Your coworkers may be of different ages, genders and races, and political correctness is a way to help everyone. feel comfortable in the group dynamic.

Chatter
Many Americans engage in what is known as small talk, when you talk to strangers or acquaintances about non-controversial topics such as the weather, sports, or popular TV shows. While waiting at the bus stop, in line at the store, or in the elevator, don’t be alarmed if a stranger says something like, “Did you watch the Super Bowl last night? What a game!” They might also make a joke about the long line you’re both in or comment on a current situation. Small talk should be harmless, so it’s no good if a stranger says something that makes you uncomfortable.

Independence
The idea of self-sufficiency is highly valued in the United States. Many American children and teens leave home for extended periods of time, often to summer camps or traveling. After high school, many Americans choose to attend colleges and universities outside and often far from their hometowns. College students usually live on their own or in dormitories with other students while they are in school for two to four years, and many move away from their childhood homes after graduation. After 17 or 18 years, most Americans no longer live at home with their families. They also store, do laundry, cook, and pursue careers or studies on their own.

The idea of being self-sufficient and independent is highly valued in the United States.

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Africa’s Influence on U.S. Culture https://www.nhhc.org/africas-influence/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 14:16:15 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=78 Most of the Africans forcibly brought to the plantations, mines, and workshops of the New World made their involuntary journey from the coast of West Africa

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Most of the Africans forcibly brought to the plantations, mines, and workshops of the New World made their involuntary journey from the coast of West Africa, which runs between present-day Senegal and Angola. Today this heritage is part of the religious landscape of the United States. While always subtly visible in the Christianity of black North Americans, it is evident in the religious traditions that were brought to the United States by Caribbean immigrants in the late 20th century, including the Cuban Regla de Ocha-Ifa/Lucumi (commonly known as Santeria.) ), 21 divisions (21 divisions) from the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rican sansé, Haitian voodoo, Brazilian candomblé, Jamaican revivalism (also known as obeah), and Rastafarianism. The presence of these African-Caribbean traditions in the United States has contributed to the emergence of new forms of religious life for African Americans influenced by Africans.

African religious traditions, which came to America through enslaved Africans, share a number of qualities. In a reciprocal relationship with these deities, people enjoy success, perform rites of passage, and overcome adversity, illness, and sorrow. Like many modern African traditions, these streams of faith and practice include sacred polyrhythmic dance, music, and chants of invocation and response to welcome the deities into the ceremonial space. Practitioners are often called children of the deities, and the deities, in turn, believe that they guide and care for them. Practitioners of many such traditions make offerings of food and flowers to deities and spirits during ceremonies and initiations.

Distinctly African traditions have made the most obvious contributions to Caribbean and South American religions-Candomblé and Umbanda in Brazil; Regla de Ocha-Ifa in Cuba; Shango, Shango Baptist, and Trinidad Orisha in Trinidad and Tobago; Obeah and Myalism in Jamaica; and voodoo in Haiti-while in the United States they have been transformed into less recognizable forms. Researchers of African American history, noting that supposedly similar traditions survived only as cultural fragments until they were reintroduced across the Caribbean, have wondered what distinguishes the experience of these traditions in the Caribbean and South America from that of the United States.

Caribbean immigration to the United States from the late 1950s created a new series of African-inspired religions, which then changed the pan-Africanist impulse among Native black Americans. Some joined these Afro-Caribbean traditions, while others borrowed practices from them as part of their desire to reconnect with Africa.

Furthermore, despite its distance from the West African source of the slave trade, biblical “Ethiopia” has become for some African American Christians a beacon of hope as a source of black dignity. The political pan-African vision culminated in the 1920s with Marcus Garvey’s “back to Africa” movement. Led by Garvey, the United Negro Improvement Association, the largest mass organization in African American history, did not adhere to any one denomination, but declared missionary work and the building of an African homeland the responsibility of all African American Christians. Garvey’s redemptive pan-Africanism finds prominent followers not only in secular African American fashion and politics, but also in religious movements such as the Nation of Islam.

For many African American Christians and Muslims, identification with Africa did not imply identification with Africa’s unbiblical religious traditions. Until recently, most African American Christians consciously downplayed their cultural and hereditary ties to Africa. Herskovitz, in particular, argued that American culture, while not retaining distinctive Caribbean religious traditions, nevertheless abounds in “Africanisms” or African remnants. Among these are many forms of dance, movement, music, and the experience of being “filled with the Holy Spirit that the Black Church has contributed to American Protestantism in general and Pentecostalism in particular.

In many ways Americans today identify with the distinctly African culture and religion of the African diaspora. There is a new awareness among African Americans in the United States of the contributions their ancestors made to shaping American culture, which is reflected in new forms of African American celebration, such as the nine-day Kwanzaa Festival held in December. Caribbean Americans bring with them a legacy of Catholicism as well as Afro-Caribbean traditions associated with Haiti, Cuba, or Jamaica. In addition, new immigrants from many African countries, including Coptic Christians from Ethiopia, Pentecostals from Nigeria, and Anglicans from Ghana, bring with them Christian traditions shaped by their own African culture. These very different streams of tradition and culture associated with Africa are now present in America.

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Chinese Culture Transferred to America https://www.nhhc.org/chinese-culture-transferred-to-america/ Thu, 28 Jul 2022 13:53:46 +0000 https://www.nhhc.org/?p=69 The Chinese who came to America in the late nineteenth century were mostly poor peasants and laborers who had to struggle to survive in the miserable conditions of their time.

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The Chinese who came to America in the late nineteenth century were mostly poor peasants and laborers who had to struggle to survive in the miserable conditions of their time. The well-to-do Chinese nobles – scientists, officials, and landowners – constituted the elite of Chinese society and did not need to leave their ancestral homes to mine for gold or work on railroad brigades in a distant country. But whether they were poor or rich, the Chinese rarely left their homeland in search of another. When they went abroad, it was often the wife and children who stayed behind. Almost all emigrants hoped to return, having accumulated a fortune by trade or labor in a foreign country. In America, a Chinese worker who managed to save a few hundred dollars would have considered this a small fortune and usually retired to his native village in Guangdong Province. He could expect to spend his declining years surrounded by his respectful sons and grandchildren, and when he died, to be buried among the honorable dead descendants of the long line. This “situation-centered” Chinese culture, as cultural anthropologist Francis L.C. Xu has called it, is very different from “individual-centered” American culture. This cultural chasm has been the source of much subsequent friction between Chinese immigrants and white Americans.

CUISINE
Chinese tea was a popular drink in eighteenth- and nineteenth-century America. Since the 1960s, Chinese food has also become an integral part of the American diet. Chinese restaurants can be found in small towns and large cities in the United States. Basic ingredients for authentic Chinese dishes can now be found in all chain supermarkets, and Chinese cooking classes are regularly shown on national television. Chinese takeout, catering and chain restaurants have become commonplace in major cities, and Chinese dim sum, salads and pasta can be found in cocktail bars, exclusive clubs and resorts. Gone are pre-1960 dishes such as chop suey, chow mein, egg fuyun and barbecue pork ribs. In fact, many Americans mastered the use of chopsticks and acquired a taste for fine Chinese regional cuisines such as Cantonese, Keqia (Hakka), Sichuan (Sichuan), Shandong, Hunan, Chinese (Peking), Taiwanese (Minnan), Chaozhou. (Teo-chihu) and Shanghai. American households now commonly use Chinese ingredients such as soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin sauce in their food; use Chinese cooking techniques such as stir-frying; and incorporate Chinese cooking utensils such as woks and cleavers in their kitchens.

TRADITIONAL COSTUMES.
Very few Chinese Americans now wear traditional Chinese clothing. On special occasions, some traditional costumes are worn. For example, on her wedding day, a bride might wear a Western wedding dress for the wedding ceremony and then change into a traditional Chinese wedding dress, called a gua, for the tea ceremony and banquet. In some traditional families, elders sometimes wear traditional Chinese formal attire to greet guests on Chinese New Year’s Day. Sometimes young Chinese American women wear tight-fitting chengsam ( cheongsam ) or qipao. for formal parties or banquets. Occasionally Chinese style finds its way into American high fashion and Hollywood movies.

DANCES AND SONGS
Chinese opera and folk songs are performed and sung in the Chinese-American community. Cantonese opera, once very popular in Chinatown, is performed for older audiences, and there are small opera singing clubs in large Chinese neighborhoods in North America. Performances of Peking opera are rarer. Among well-educated Chinese, concerts performing Chinese folk songs and art songs are well attended, and amateur groups performing this type of music can be found in most cities with significant Chinese-American populations. Likewise, both classical and folk dances continue to find fans among Chinese Americans. The Chinese Folk Dance Association of San Francisco is one of several groups promoting this activity. However, most are new immigrants from China and young American-born people,

CANICULES
Most Chinese Americans today celebrate the major holidays of the Chinese lunar calendar ( yin li ). Today, Chinese calendars usually provide both solar ( yang li ) and lunar calendars, and Chinese daily newspapers provide both types of dates. The most important holiday is the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival ( chun jie ), which is also a school holiday in San Francisco.

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