Letter to the editor

When ever I have been asked what my nationality was, my answer is always, "I am an American", Not, " I am a European American, or a German American or a French American, or a white American". Why then do we single out Americans of Asian or African ancestry by calling them Asian Americans or African Americans even when the families of the persons involved settled in this country generations ago? My point is that anyone born in this country is entitled to call himself an American, period.... unless he or she specifically prefers to put the country or continent of his or her ancestry up front. I wonder if this might contribute to-wards creating or widening a gap between us. Our ancestors, regardless of race, nationality or culture, came to these shores in pursuit of the American dream, to become citizens, American citizens. If they wanted to be otherwise they would have stayed where they were. Before someone beats me to it, I'll hasten to say there are those who only come to this country to avail themselves of its benefits and never intend to become citizens. My focus here is on those who come to stay. Its one thing for an African or Asian or Hispanic immigrant to define himself by the nationality of where he came from, but any children who are born here are Americans, first, last and always. I will probably never see the day, but it is my hope that the time will come when just calling ourselves Americans, without the sub titles,. will be good enough. Just the thought of calling myself a European French ,German white American makes my skin crawl.Its not that I disown my heritage, it's just that it is no longer relevant. I am an AMERICAN, PERIOD!

George Morin
Auburn, Ga.