Language
For Asian immigrants who now call the United States home, learning English is often more complex than simply acquiring a second set of linguistic skills. While knowing the language remains necessary for effective communication, finding jobs, and interacting with communities across the country, it does lead many immigrant families to a difficult cultural crossroad. As our storytellers reveal, some may strongly encourage their children to speak English, just like Americans. Others may feel that by switching to English they forfeit a profound connection to their roots, ultimately creating an identity crisis, out of which each individual must navigate oneself: Does the usefulness of English outweigh the loss of a heritage language? Can they have it both ways?
Jane Murakami Transcription
Naomi Munggai Transcription