Finding Myself in America’s Olympic Victories
Our complicated relationship with America mirrors the complexities of a multicultural identity, a truth highlighted by the Olympics. Read more!
Previously, I have shared challenges of walking the line between multiple cultures, and it may have come across as though I don’t appreciate having a multicultural identity. That is far from the truth. Over time, I have found that I can love something even if I have a complicated relationship with it, and I recently came across the perfect example that encapsulates this feeling: the Olympics.
Watching the Olympics has been an emotional journey for me (and many Americans), as it has highlighted our mix of feelings towards our country.
Before the Olympics, I heard many critiques about America from fellow citizens. People claimed that the social and economic issues plaguing America signaled the death of the American Dream, sparking some to leave. The nation has also seemed deeply divided on important issues, with the news furthering that divide with sensational, headline-driven media that prioritizes viewership over delivering unbiased, unifying information. It has felt like the world has been watching us as if we were a reality show unraveling in real-time.
Amidst these negative sentiments, the Olympics has brought a stark contrast. As I tuned in and watched American athletes like Simone Biles, Caleb Dressel, and Noah Lyles win gold, I found myself tearing up with admiration and pride. Suddenly, I was proud to be an American—a sentiment many of us grew up with. This surge of patriotism felt strange, almost contradictory, considering the critical discourse surrounding the country.
Similar to the “It’s complicated” relationship option on Facebook, the Olympics have truly highlighted the nuance in my relationship with America.
I share this point because this complicated relationship with America is similar to how I have navigated my sense of self with my multicultural identity. There are aspects of being between cultures that I love and aspects that I don’t. But, this doesn’t diminish the love I feel for my multicultural experience. I hold pride in the collective identity. This duality makes me who I am—complex and multifaceted.
Just as I embrace the complexities of my multicultural experience, I find myself embracing the complexities of America. It's not always straightforward, but I still call it home.
