America is a nation founded on the phrase "all men are created equal"," yet we still find time to scrutinize and pick apart our every difference. Our nation is so diverse that it is commonly referred to as a "melting pot". This label implies that all of our different cultures, beliefs, and heritages have ceased to be individual characteristics and have become the sum of a whole. But in reality, that descriptive term couldn't be further from the truth. Shouldn't all the things that make us unique and different from one another be celebrated? .
In a sense, this question is much like Gloria Anzaldua's description of a choque. A choque is a difficult and ongoing battle between incompatible cultures with contrasting values and ideals. More simply, a choque can be described as a "cultural collision". This collision is a difficult one, an ongoing battle that rages between incompatible cultures with contrasting values and ideas. It calls for us to not stand on opposite ends of the riverbank merely reacting to the problems around us, but to face the "war" and take a stand for what we know to be what's best for humanity. Many people fear what they don't understand, making it easier for members of the same race, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, etc., to stay "protected" in their particular group. This reluctance to venture outside of our respective comfort zones is what makes any sort of true cultural collision unlikely.
In America, we also have the right to free speech. That right, as it relates to this subject, means that if a person does not like an aspect of someone else's culture, they can voice their opinion without punishment. All of the various committees that police what is broadcast keep tabs on what can and cannot be aired in the interest of being politically correct, but these committees cannot police word of mouth and hear say. The point being that, no matter how much we learn to embrace differing cultures, the individuals who disagree will still be able to voice their opinions.
