America.gov-Diversity: Introduction

Women Environmental Filmmakers Tell Important Stories

Carolee Walker — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 09:28:52 -0400

The best environmental filmmakers help good science reach the public, says Laura Boyd, a film and television producer at the National Geographic Society. “Scientists have enough to do without marketing their findings.” She spoke on a panel at the D.C. Environmental Film Festival.

Nowruz Event in United States Celebrates Iranian Culture

Ralph Dannheisser — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:25:49 -0400

New immigrants from Iran, native-born Americans and area residents gathered on the National Mall in Washington to enjoy a day of musical performances, storytelling, fire-jumping and foods celebrating the Persian New Year, Nowruz, which officially begins on the vernal equinox and lasts 13 days.

Author Carves Unique Identity from a Mosaic of Family Ethnicities

Sonya Weakley — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:09:49 -0400

After her parents divorced, Rebecca Walker, author of the bestselling memoir on multiracial identity Black, White and Jewish: Autobiography of a Shifting Self, alternated between white Jewish and predominantly African-American cultures. While the ongoing process of shifting identities was difficult, Walker explains in an interview with America.gov how her multicultural experiences shaped her dynamic and inclusive world view.

World War II Black Women’s Army Unit Receives Overdue Honors

Crystal Ofori — Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:03:46 -0400

In 1945, 855 African-American women in the Women’s Army Corps were sent to England and France to sort through a huge backlog of undelivered mail destined for U.S. troops in Europe. After the work was done, the women were discharged without any special recognition. In 2009 the recognition finally came.

Movable Exhibit Displays Images of Iranians in Everyday Life

Sonya Weakley — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 16:04:55 -0400

Feeling compelled to improve the image of Iranians in the minds of Americans, U.S. photographer Tom Loughlin has created a massive outdoor exhibit of portraits of Iranians posing or going about everyday life. “Pictures of You” displays the photographs on large hanging panels of translucent silk.

The Role of Writers in Interracial Understanding

Lea Terhune — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 17:39:43 -0400

Bernard LaFayette, an educator, minister and veteran civil rights activist, says the election of Barack Obama, the first African-American president of the United States, came about with the help of powerful writers who sought mutual understanding and change.

Re-imagining the Self, Re-imagining America

Andrew Lam — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 12:13:06 -0400

Vietnam-born American writer Andrew Lam, an editor at New America Media, drew upon opposing ideas of life from many cultures as he sought to determine his American identity. In this contributed article, he examines the “eloquence and imagination” that binds disparate experiences into one that is American.

U.S. Celebrates Women’s Contributions to the World Every March

Louise Fenner — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:39:42 -0400

Each March, National Women’s History Month celebrates the contributions of women to the history and culture of the United States. The 2009 theme is Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet, recognizing the role of women in the “green movement," according to the National Women’s History Project.

Language-Immersion Program Focuses on Teaching Through Play

Peggy B. Hu — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 08:23:09 -0400

Increasingly, U.S. families are eager to have their children learn languages at an early age. One program, CommuniKids Language School for Children, fulfills this desire by offering total-immersion classes in French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Mandarin Chinese and Arabic to children just beginning to form their first words.

Secretary Clinton Honors Martin Luther King’s 1959 Trip to India

Louise Fenner — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 17:22:05 -0400

Several members of a delegation traveling to India to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s visit in 1959 are welcomed to the State Department by Secretary of State Clinton. The late civil rights leader’s son, two congressmen and musician Herbie Hancock are among delegation members.

Historian Links Roles of Lincoln, Douglass in Advancing Racial Justice

Ralph Dannheisser — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 15:17:10 -0400

The development of President Abraham Lincoln and the abolitionist Frederick Douglass from lowly beginnings to greatness was similar and their joint effect on history profound. Harvard historian John Stauffer says that Lincoln and Douglass are “the two pre-eminent self-made men in American history.”

Finding My Own Saffron Sky

Crystal Grace Ofori — Mon, 02 Feb 2009 17:44:30 -0400

Although I speak English at work and at school, at home I speak Twi; the language of the Ashanti tribe and a language that I have spoken since I was 8. I am proud of being a Ghanaian American, but it wasn’t always that way. Iranian-American Gelareh Asayesh faced these same challenges.

Blogging Identity

Jessica Hilberman — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:33:20 -0400

Satirical blogs such as Stuff White People Like and more analytical Web sites like That Minority Thing are shaping the way people talk about race, view the role of race in their culture, and communicate about their identities. The participatory nature of blogs has changed the Internet, one author says.

Identity in America: Are Perspectives Shifting?

Sonya Weakley — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 12:11:35 -0400

Multicultural, post-ethnic, post-racial. While these descriptors are debated, most agree that with the possible exception of the American Indian, to be American is to be, genealogically speaking, from somewhere else. During February, America.gov is exploring how the ever-increasing diversity of the U.S. population is affecting the way Americans view themselves.

Black History Month Honors Legacy of Struggle and Triumph

Louise Fenner — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:32:18 -0400

John Fleming, head of black history study group, tells America.gov Black History Month should focus on positive and negative aspects of the black experience. “We were not slaves prior to being captured in Africa, and while slavery was part of our experience … we have a hundred-and-some years in freedom that we also need to deal with.”

Landmark Exhibit on Race Asks “Are We So Different?”

Jeffrey Thomas — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 10:43:47 -0400

Is race real or a recent human invention? Is it about biology or culture? These questions are addressed by RACE: Are We So Different?, a traveling exhibit and related Web site on the history of the idea of race, the science of human variation, and the experience of living with race and racism.

Americans Urged to Do Volunteer Work on Martin Luther King Day

Jeffrey Thomas — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 10:10:19 -0400

President-elect Obama calls on Americans to join his family on Martin Luther King Day in volunteering for a community service project, and to use the holiday as a springboard to an ongoing commitment to their communities. “It’s going to be up to all of us to renew America together,” says Michelle Obama.

Americans Celebrate Achievements of Martin Luther King Jr.

Michael Jay Friedman — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 13:51:59 -0400

Americans on the third Monday of January honor the life and achievements of the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr. (1929-1968), the 1964 Nobel Peace laureate, a champion of universal justice, and the individual most associated with the triumphs of the civil rights movement during the 1950s and 1960s.

Students’ Tour of Civil Rights Landmarks Is ‘Life-Changing’

Jeffrey Thomas — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 13:58:51 -0400

Operation Understanding DC, a program for African-American and Jewish high school students, aims to create community leaders who will fight racism and anti-Semitism. In addition to learning about each other’s religions and cultures, the students travel to New York and the southern United States.

Times Square a Focus of New Year's Eve Festivities

Michael Jay Friedman — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 16:40:04 -0400

Millions of Americans associate New Year’s Eve with New York City’s Times Square. Every year, people crowd Times Square to watch the descent of a giant ball made of crystal and lights that sits atop a pole, while the crowd counts down the seconds and erupts into cheers of Happy New Year at midnight.

Americans Celebrate Christmas with Many Traditions

Michael Jay Friedman, Louise Fenner — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 10:57:09 -0400

Americans, like many of the world’s peoples, have developed their own Christmas traditions and observances, and these have changed greatly over time. Other holidays celebrated at roughly the same time of year — such as the African-American Kwanzaa and the Jewish Hanukkah —blend into a broader “holiday season.”

Retired Teacher Builds Hope in Central African Republic Village

Sonya Weakley — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 15:20:07 -0400

Micheline Mbathas, a retired teacher in the Central African Republic, which is the subject of intense United Nations efforts to end violent attacks by rebel groups and bandits, decided to build a school for a village where children had no access to education. Now, she is working to build a hospital.

Kids Celebrate Diversity and Tolerance by “Mixing It Up” at Lunch

Jeffrey Thomas — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 10:55:07 -0400

Recently, millions of students in thousands of schools and universities in the United States and other countries celebrated diversity and tolerance by eating lunch at a table where they don’t usually sit. Mix It Up at Lunch Day is part of a campaign to encourage students to question and cross social boundaries.

New U.S. Coin Series to Honor American Indians

Louise Fenner — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 18:17:44 -0400

Contributions made by American Indians to the history and culture of the United States will be celebrated on a new series of $1 coins beginning early in 2009. The coins are a redesign of the Sacagawea dollar first issued in 2000 and will feature new images on the back of that dollar each year.

American Indian Heritage Month Links

Louise Fenner — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 15:59:31 -0400

This document contains links to Web sites related to American Indian Heritage Month and other online resources.

Thanksgiving Day a Time for Reflection, Gratitude, Sharing

Michael Jay Friedman, Louise Fenner — Mon, 24 Nov 2008 18:34:54 -0400

Thanksgiving Day in the United States, the fourth Thursday in November, is possibly the premier U.S. family celebration — typically celebrated at home and marked with a substantial feast. Many Americans also take time to prepare and serve meals to the needy at churches, soup kitchens and homeless shelters.

Veterans Day Honors Those Who Served in U.S. Military

Ralph Dannheisser — Fri, 07 Nov 2008 15:20:32 -0400

The November 11 holiday created to pay tribute to U.S. veterans of World War I was expanded into the annual Veterans Day, honoring all those who have served in the U.S. military. Recognition of those who fought in World War II and in Vietnam will be a major part of observances across the country.

U.S. Honors Contributions of American Indians, Alaska Natives

Louise Fenner — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 16:31:16 -0400

There are nearly 5 million American Indians and Alaska Natives in the United States, 1.6 percent of the U.S. population. Each November, National American Indian Heritage Month pays tribute to the first Americans and celebrates their enduring contributions to the history and culture of the United States.

Afghan Radio Broadcaster Committed to Raising Status of Women

Sonya Weakley — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 15:54:10 -0400

An Afghan businesswoman who recently visited the United States will use the knowledge she gained to expand her radio station, which focuses on raising the status of women in Balkh province. During the trip, she received advice and got a firsthand view of the latest broadcasting equipment and technology.

U.S. Children, Adults Celebrate Halloween

Michael Jay Friedman — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 18:05:32 -0400

While not an official holiday, the traditional October 31 Halloween celebration is much beloved by children in the United States, for whom the day is a chance to don costumes and to collect candy and other treats from adults. Many adults also celebrate the occasion by attending costume parties.

Protections for America’s Disabled Workers Expanded Under New Law

Louise Fenner — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:37:47 -0400

President Bush signed a law on September 25 the ADA Amendments Act, which restores workplace protections that had eroded as a result of several Supreme Court decisions issued since the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act. The new law expands the population eligible for protection under the ADA.

Columbus Day Commemorates Explorer’s Arrival in New World

Suzanne Dawkins, Louise Fenner — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:36:04 -0400

Columbus Day, the annual U.S. commemoration of explorer Christopher Columbus' landing in the New World in 1492, is celebrated on the second Monday in October. Columbus Day is also a celebration of Italian and Italian-American cultural heritage, Columbus generally being considered a native of Genoa, Italy.

Diversity Rocks in South Africa

Phillip Kurata — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 15:26:43 -0400

Seven musicians from Los Angeles show that diversity and unity coexist — among band members, among a country’s citizens and among musical styles. At a concert in Pretoria, South Africa, they get an enthusiastic reaction to their own blend of rock, hip-hop, jazz, reggae, cumbia and salsa.

Artist Heba Amin Explores Her Egyptian Heritage in America

Howard Cincotta and Deborah Conn — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:03:37 -0400

Contemporary artist Heba Amin, 28, has been drawing for as long as she can remember, but pursuing art full-time did not occur to her until she was a junior in college. At the time, Amin, who now lives in Minneapolis, was a math major and first envisioned herself as an architect.

Afghan American Gives Back to His Family’s Homeland

Howard Cincotta and Deborah Conn — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 17:01:15 -0400

Joseph Osman has packed a lot of accomplishments into his 25 years. He graduated from college in three years and earned a master’s in business administration, but found the corporate life not to be his calling. Osman soon found himself in Afghanistan helping to alleviate the deep poverty he found there.

2010 Diversity Visa Lottery Registration Opens October 2, 2008

Louise Fenner — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:07:56 -0400

Each year the U.S. government makes 50,000 permanent residency visas (“green cards”) available through the Diversity Immigrant Visa program. These are awarded to qualified applicants by lottery. Registration for the 2010 Diversity Visa Lottery (DV-2010) will be held October 2 to December 1, 2008.

Diversity Visa Applicants Must Meet Eligibility Requirements

Louise Fenner — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:27:19 -0400

The State Department holds an annual lottery to select applicants for 50,000 diversity immigrant visas. The DV-2010 lottery for fiscal year 2010 is October 2 to December 1, 2008. Lottery entrants should know that diversity visas are available only to persons who meet the eligibility requirements.

Lebanese American Saves Families from Losing Their Homes

Howard Cincotta — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 14:07:53 -0400

Moose Scheib excelled in his studies and landed a job at a top law firm. One day, he was able to walk into the restaurant where his mother worked as a cook and tell her she would never have to work again. Today Scheib heads a company that has saved thousands of families from losing their homes.

Muslim Designers Create Clothes That Combine Fashion with Modesty

Howard Cincotta and Deborah Conn — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 14:07:31 -0400

Nyla Hashmi and Fatima Monkush grew up best friends in Hartford, Connecticut. Both have Muslim fathers from South Asia and American mothers who converted to Islam. And now, both are committed to designing chic clothing that offers Muslim women a way to dress both modestly and fashionably.

Imam Khalid Latif Builds Communities of Faith and Diversity

Howard Cincotta — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:08:31 -0400

At age 25, Imam Khalid Latif already has achieved important leadership responsibilities as director of the Islamic Center at New York University and as a chaplain for the New York Police Department. Both are “American institutions with growing Muslim populations who are trying to find their way,” he says.

Songwriter Kareem Salama Combines Muslim Faith and Country Music

Howard Cincotta — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:07:04 -0400

Kareem Salama grew up in Oklahoma, where country music is a soundtrack to daily life. But he also grew up in a devout Muslim household. When he started writing and singing his own songs, he combined a sensibility rooted in his Muslim faith with a compelling voice and a distinctive Southern accent.

TV Journalist Kiran Khalid Covers News from Texas to Pakistan

Howard Cincotta — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 14:06:30 -0400

As a kid, Kiran Khalid says, she sat inside a cardboard box facing outward — “so that I was literally in a TV.” Since then, Khalid has pursued a career as a television journalist and producer that has taken her from local news reporting to covering major national and international news events.

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month

Suzanne Dawkins — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 11:22:04 -0400

Hispanic Heritage Month honors the diverse people of Spanish-speaking backgrounds in the United States. From September 15 to October 15, a multitude of special programs, events, exhibits and Web sites celebrate the heritage, culture, spirit and extraordinary contributions of Hispanic Americans.

Latin Jazz Stamp Brightens Up Hispanic Heritage Month

Louise Fenner — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 13:52:42 -0400

The U.S. Postal Service has issued more than 50 commemorative stamps celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. They are often issued to complement National Hispanic Heritage Month.

U.S. Muslims Observe Ramadan in Supportive Environment

Lauren Monsen — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 16:17:38 -0400

Muslims in the United States typically observe Ramadan and fulfill their other religious obligations with the encouragement and support of non-Muslim friends, colleagues and neighbors.

Labor Day Marks Appreciation of U.S. Workers

Michael J. Friedman — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:47:04 -0400

Labor Day, celebrated in the United States on the first Monday of each September, is the nation's official commemoration of its workers' contributions to national strength, prosperity and well-being. It also marks the unofficial end of summer. America’s labor force is 154.5 million people strong (May 2008).

U.S. Minorities Will Be the Majority by 2042, Census Bureau Says

Louise Fenner — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 12:05:36 -0400

By the middle of the century, the population of the United States will be larger and more racially and ethnic diverse than earlier projections suggested, with much of the increase due to immigration. By 2042, minorities, collectively, are projected to make up more than 50 percent of the U.S. population, the Census Bureau says in a new report.

Navajo Textbook Aims to Preserve Language, Culture

Jeffrey Thomas — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 14:57:58 -0400

New Mexico is the first U.S. state to approve a textbook that teaches a Native American language -- Diné Bizaad Bínáhoo'aah or Rediscovering the Navajo Language. The authors hope their work will help preserve Navajo and serve as a model and inspiration for other threatened languages and cultures.

Disabled Bahraini, U.S. Students Seeking New Possibilities

Steve Holgate — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 14:08:09 -0400

Two delegations of young people with disabilities -- one Bahraini, the other American -- are taking part in an exchange program that allows them to address key issues that affect them. Organized by Mobility International USA and funded by the U.S. Department of State, the program is in its second year.

Bhutan, Others Come to Washington for Folklife Festival

MacKenzie Babb — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 17:25:55 -0400

Some boots are made for cowboys, others for astronauts to walk on the moon, and still others are a colorful part of traditional Bhutanese dress -- but this year they were also part of America's largest, annual cultural heritage celebration, the 42^nd annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival.

U.S. Independence Day a Civic and Social Event

Michael Jay Friedman — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:02:16 -0400

The United States celebrates Independence Day on July 4 with patriotic celebration and family events. In the words of Founding Father John Adams, the holiday would be “the great anniversary festival.” It is a major civic occasion, with roots deep in the Anglo-American tradition of political freedom.

Veterans’ Wartime Memories Find Home in Library of Congress

Sarah Rouse — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 10:48:10 -0400

In 2000, the Library of Congress Veterans History Project (VHP) began to preserve the wartime memories of U.S. military veterans. It has collected accounts from 50,000 veterans of World War II and more recent conflicts. It includes oral histories, letters, diaries, photos and historical documents.

Guide for New U.S. Immigrants Comes in 13 Languages

Louise Fenner — Tue, 27 May 2008 14:54:47 -0400

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services updated a free booklet Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants, adding Polish and Urdu to the other languages in which it is available: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Haitian Creole, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese.

Memorial Day Holiday Honors American War Dead

Michael Jay Friedman — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:35:28 -0400

The Memorial Day holiday celebrated by Americans on the last Monday of May represents for many the unofficial beginning of summer. But most will pause at some point to recall the holiday’s true purpose: honoring those who died defending their nation.

U.S. Minority Population Continues to Grow

David Minckler — Wed, 14 May 2008 10:05:18 -0400

More than one-third of the population of the United States claims “minority” racial or ethnic heritage, 11 percent more than in 2000. Hispanics and Asians continue to be the two fastest-growing minority groups.

Ellis Island Honors Immigrants to United States

Melody Merin — Fri, 09 May 2008 11:50:49 -0400

Some 40 percent of Americans can trace their ancestry to immigrants who passed through the Ellis Island immigration center between 1892 and 1954. Each year, the Ellis Island Family Heritage Awards honor the accomplishments of these immigrants, such as songwriter Irving Berlin, and their descendants.

Cinco de Mayo Shows the Americanization of a Mexican Holiday

Lauren Monsen — Mon, 05 May 2008 12:08:58 -0400

The Cinco de Mayo (Fifth of May) holiday, which honors the Mexican heritage of a growing number of U.S. citizens, is now observed in communities all across the United States. As a celebration of all things Mexican, the holiday has become a vibrant annual event that recognizes the contributions of Mexican Americans in a variety of fields.

Business and Activism Intersect for Designer Kenneth Cole

Lea Terhune — Fri, 02 May 2008 17:52:30 -0400

Kenneth Cole, successful fashion designer, has aired his concerns about social issues in magazines and on billboards for years. In 2008, he launched an “AWEARNESS” blog and a fashion ad campaign themed “We all walk in different shoes,” a series of ads highlighting diversity of ethnicity, life choices, politics and even physical handicaps.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month a Celebration of Diversity

Louise Fenner — Fri, 02 May 2008 15:10:03 -0400

Throughout May, Americans celebrate Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month with community festivals, parades and cultural performances. People of Asian descent comprise the third largest minority group -- and the second fastest-growing group -- in the United States, constituting about 5 percent of the U.S. population.

New Intercountry Adoption Standards Implemented in United States

Derek Repp — Thu, 01 May 2008 11:34:31 -0400

Following the entry in force in the United States of the Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption, the U.S. departments of State and Homeland Security implement new procedures to help ensure that foreign children being adopted into the United States receive the highest level of protection.

Women Deserve More Credit for Their Inventions, Author Says

Melody Merin — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 18:03:04 -0400

Women have been discovering, innovating and inventing throughout history, and it is time to give them the credit they deserve, says author Ethlie Ann Vare. Her 1988 book Mothers of Invention was the first book in America on women inventors, and she has published two more on the neglected subject since.

Life of Nobel Laureate and Africanist Ralph Bunche Honored

Melissa Martinez — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:29:06 -0400

The State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs honors Ralph Johnson Bunche, a scholar, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, career diplomat and Africanist who sought to study and understand Africa from the African point of view. The occasion celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Africa Bureau’s founding.

Arab Americans Present “Spirit of Humanity” Awards

Nino Kader — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 13:05:27 -0400

Hundreds of Americans, many of Arab origin, attend the Kahlil Gibran Spirit of Humanity Awards ceremony. The awards, created to celebrate the life of Arab-American writer Gibran Kahlil Gibran, recognize individuals and groups whose work "promotes inclusion, cultural understanding and cooperation across ethnic, racial and religious lines."

U.S. Adopters of Foreign Orphans Undergo Tough Scrutiny

Derek Repp — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 08:53:56 -0400

The United States adopts more children from abroad than all other countries combined. This is because of a culture of adoption in America, where a child does not have to be genetically linked to its parents to be loved, experts say. Strong institutional safeguards protecting children’s rights and well-being also play a role.

Pope Benedict’s First U.S. Visit Draws Large, Lively Crowds

Louise Fenner — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 08:08:33 -0400

President Bush welcomes Pope Benedict XVI on the South Lawn of the White House April 16 in one of the largest arrival ceremonies ever held at the White House, saying Americans are “open to your message of hope.” The pontiff’s April 15-20 visit to Washington and New York is his first trip to the United States as pope.

Spanglish: Speaking la Lengua Loca

Susan Doner — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 16:11:40 -0400

In the United States, Spanish and English have mixed to form a hybrid language. The author explains how and why Spanish and English have mixed with each other in the United States to create Spanglish, a hybid language increasingly used not only in spoken but also in written form.

Dominican-American Author Junot Diaz Wins Pulitzer Prize for Fiction

Lauren Monsen — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 14:48:15 -0400

The 2008 Pulitzer Prize for fiction secures the reputation of Dominican-born writer Junot Diaz as a singular talent with an original literary voice. The award for The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao crowns Diaz's lifetime fascination with literature and underscores growing Latino prominence in U.S. arts and letters, critics say.

Iranian Americans Observe Persian New Year Traditions

Afzal Khan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 16:23:04 -0400

Some 2 million Iranian Americans -- and other immigrants from neighboring countries that were once part of the Persian Empire -- celebrate Nowrouz, the Persian New Year, starting March 20 with rituals that go back thousands of years.

U.S. Religious Landscape Is Marked by Diversity and Change

Melody Merin — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 16:24:35 -0400

Religious affiliation in the United States is “diverse and extremely fluid,” according to a new poll. While more than three-fourths of those surveyed classify themselves as Christian, the survey also finds that more than 28 percent of American adults leave the faith of their childhoods to practice another religion -- or no religion.

America Goes Green for St. Patrick’s Day

Bridget Hunter — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 18:20:11 -0400

St. Patrick's Day might be one of the world’s most celebrated holidays, with city-sponsored festivities held in Japan, Australia, Canada, Malaysia, Great Britain and the United States, as well as the saint’s beloved Ireland. That geography reflects the broad dispersion of Irish, through choice or necessity, during a 300-year migration.

Women’s History, Accomplishments Celebrated Every March

Louise Fenner — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 14:11:18 -0400

For Women's History Month 2008, the National Women’s History Project is recognizing the accomplishments of 12 women artists -- Violet Oakley, Rose O'Neill, Edna Hibel, Lihua Lei, Jaune Quick-to-See Smith, Faith Ringgold, Miriam Schapiro, Lorna Simpson, June Wayne, Nancy Spero, Harmony Hammond and Judy Chicago.

End of U.S. Military Segregation Set Stage for Rights Movement

David McKeeby — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:29:04 -0400

African Americans have served in the U.S. military since the days of George Washington, but it took until July 26, 1948, when President Truman issued an executive order for desegregating the armed forces, for the country to begin living up to the democratic ideals that they fought to defend.

Washington's Birthday Holiday Honors First President

Michael J. Friedman — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 11:39:35 -0400

The Washington’s Birthday holiday in the United States honors George Washington, commander of the United States armies in the War of Independence, first president of the United States, and "first in the hearts of his countrymen."

American Identity: Ideas, Not Ethnicity

Bruce Odessey — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 12:25:26 -0400

Since the United States was founded in the 18^th century, Americans have defined themselves not by their racial, religious, and ethnic identity but by their common values and belief in individual freedom.

Immigration and U.S. History

Bruce Odessey — Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:53:59 -0400

Tens of millions of immigrants over four centuries have made the United States what it is today. They came to make new lives and livelihoods in the New World; their hard work benefited themselves and their new home country.

U.S. Universities Strive To Increase Student Diversity

Jeffrey Thomas — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 18:46:55 -0400

Supporting diversity and creating a sense of inclusiveness for minority and foreign-born students are growing priorities for U.S. graduate schools. The University of Virginia has been honored for its program on graduate student diversity. The award recognizes innovative efforts to identify, recruit and retain minority graduate students.

Indian-American’s Experience Drives Her Immigrant Rights Advocacy

Lea Terhune — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 17:34:20 -0400

Deepa Iyer moved from India to Kentucky at the age of 12. Blazing a path from there to being the executive director of the influential South Asian American Leaders of Tomorrow (SAALT) took hard work, timely opportunity and key influences that shaped her perceptions of democracy.

New Film on America To Be Shown at U.S. Consulates, Embassies

Lauren Monsen — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 14:39:16 -0400

Visitors to U.S. consulates and embassies soon will be able to watch a short film, I Am America, that introduces them to America’s people and landscapes, conveying the simple message that America is a diverse, interesting and friendly place. The nonprofit organization Business for Diplomatic Action commissioned the film as a gift to the U.S. government.

Portrait of Indian-American Lawmaker Displayed in U.S. Capitol

Louise Fenner — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 10:48:00 -0400

The 6-year-old great-granddaughter of Dalip Singh Saund, the first Indian American elected to the U.S. Congress, pulled back a blue curtain to uncover his portrait in the U.S. Capitol as more than 225 people applauded. The portrait, unveiled November 7, is part of a series dedicated to historically important members of Congress. Saund, who died in 1973, is recognized not only as the first Indian American to hold a seat in Congress -- he was elected in 1956 and served three terms -- but also as someone who helped pave the way for Indian immigration to the United States.

New Film Introduces Visitors to the United States and Its People

Lauren Monsen — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 14:44:15 -0400

At two major U.S. airports, travelers arriving from abroad will be able to watch a short film that offers a lively introduction to the United States and its people. Welcome: Portraits of America was created by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts as a gift to the U.S. departments of State and Homeland Security.

American Indians Seek Greater Understanding, Recognition

Jeffrey Thomas — Thu, 18 Oct 2007 14:15:01 -0400

A new study shows continuing misconceptions about American Indians but also reveals that their history and culture is of interest to non-Indians. American Indians may feel isolated, misunderstood and culturally threatened, but they are proud of their accomplishments and believe their lives are improving.

Hispanic Americans Honored in Washington Ceremony

Jaroslaw Anders — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 17:43:56 -0400

Hispanic Americans are the fastest-growing U.S. population group, contributing to the country’s traditional diversity and enriching its political, cultural and community life. Their achievements were honored by President Bush at the White House during the Hispanic Heritage Month 2007 celebration.

U.S. Politics, Literature, Sports Show Cultural Influence of Hispanics

Carolee Walker — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 18:16:51 -0400

The influence of Latinos, especially as the U.S. population grows, is felt in every aspect of society, and has contributed substantially to the country’s rich cultural diversity. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Hispanics are the largest and fastest-growing minority group in the United States.

Immigration Seen Adding 105 Million to U.S. Population by 2060

Jeffrey Thomas — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:43:03 -0400

Since the founding of the United States, the population of the country has been growing at a rate that some scientists say is unprecedented in human history. Some believe that this population explosion made the United States one of the most prosperous countries of the world. But others point to congestion, urban sprawl, traffic, pollution, loss of open spaces and the increase in greenhouse gas emission as negative effects of rapid population growth. A new report projects that current levels of immigration will add 105 million to the U.S. population by 2060, while doing little to slow the rise in the population’s median age.

Immigrants Infuse English Language with Dynamism

Carolee Walker — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 16:18:26 -0400

English is a living, dynamic language that is invigorated by new speakers, including foreign students, tourists and immigrants, says cultural critic Ilan Stavans. In a multiethnic society, teachers should introduce students, even beginners, to the wide array of possibilities of a language, he says.

Spanglish Offers Stepping-Stone to English, Professor Says

Jeffrey Thomas — Wed, 15 Aug 2007 17:40:20 -0400

Spanglish, a hybrid form of English and Spanish, is one of the most striking ways two of the world’s most widely used languages are evolving in response to immigration and globalization. Spanglish is “a very creative, jazzy way of being Latino in the U.S. today,” says Ilan Stavans of Amherst College.

American Dream Still Alive and Well for Immigrants, Report Says

Jeffrey Thomas — Thu, 26 Jul 2007 15:46:04 -0400

Immigrants to the United States continue to find a land of opportunity for themselves and their children, according to a new report. “America offers dramatic mobility for immigrants,” says the report’s author, Ron Haskins, a principal of the Economic Mobility Project, which issued the report.

New U.S. Citizens Dream of Business Success, Raising Families

Elizabeth Kelleher — Tue, 24 Jul 2007 16:33:47 -0400

People choose to immigrate to the United States for many reasons, including freedom of speech and religion, economic opportunities and family ties. In interviews with several participants at a recent naturalization ceremony, America.gov explores the stories behind their decision to become Americans.

Citizen’s Almanac Introduces New Americans to Nation’s Symbols

Louise Fenner — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 15:45:29 -0400

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services presents The Citizen’s Almanac to people who become U.S. citizens. It includes the fundamental documents of American democracy, summaries of landmark U.S. Supreme Court decisions, important speeches, and a discussion of the rights and responsibilities of citizenship.

African-American Newcomers, Veterans Share Political Spotlight

Lauren Monsen — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 10:35:57 -0400

Growing appreciation of diversity has transformed the U.S. political landscape in recent years, and the country’s 2006 midterm elections ushered in a new wave of promising black politicians. At the same time, those elections also elevated older, more seasoned blacks in Congress, legislators whose experience and seniority are being rewarded with leadership posts. Among the newcomers are Deval Patrick, the new governor of Massachusetts; Georgia’s Hank Johnson, one of two Buddhists elected to the U.S. House of Representatives; and Minnesota’s Keith Ellison, who takes his seat as the first Muslim member elected to Congress.

Foreign Born in the United States Become More Dispersed

Elizabeth Kelleher — Tue, 15 Aug 2006 16:35:38 -0400

There were 36 million foreign-born people in the United States in 2005. Immigrants are dispersing to areas beyond their traditional U.S. destinations. Seven Southern states and Nebraska and New Hampshire experienced faster growth in their foreign-born populations than the United States overall.

Minority Groups Now One-Third of U.S. Population

Michael Jay Friedman — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 18:02:08 -0400

The U.S. Census Bureau announcement that one-third of U.S. residents claim "minority" heritage reflects the vitality of an American national identity that transcends race, religion and class.

U.S. Diversity Increasing, Census Data Show

Charlene Porter — Wed, 10 May 2006 10:32:53 -0400

Commemorative Stamps Honor Civil Rights Movement

Louise Fenner — Mon, 29 Aug 2005 16:31:52 -0400