Summary of "Two Ways to Belong in America"

"Two Ways to Belong in America" is an essay written by Bharati Mukherjee, an Indian-American author and professor. In this essay, Mukherjee discusses the differences between her and her sister's experiences as immigrants in America. She explores the concept of belonging, identity, and the challenges faced by immigrants in their new home. This essay not only provides a glimpse into the personal lives of the author and her sister but also raises important questions about the complexities of immigration and the notion of belonging in a multicultural society.

The Struggle for Identity

One of the central themes in Mukherjee's essay is the struggle for identity faced by immigrants. She and her sister, Mira, both moved to the United States in the 1960s, but their paths diverged when it came to their sense of belonging. Mukherjee reveals that while she fully embraced her new American identity, Mira chose to maintain her Indian identity and refused to become a US citizen. This divergence in their approaches to assimilation reflects the complex choices immigrants face when trying to find their place in a new country.

Mukherjee's personal experience of embracing her American identity is evident throughout the essay. She describes herself as a "foreign-born citizen" and highlights the privileges she enjoys as an American. She even goes on to say, "I am an American citizen and she is not." This statement encapsulates the dichotomy of their experiences and raises questions about the nature of citizenship and how it impacts one's sense of belonging.

The Impact of Immigration Policies

Mukherjee also touches on the impact of immigration policies on the lives of immigrants. She discusses how her sister, Mira, was affected by changes in immigration laws that made it more difficult for her to maintain her legal status in the United States. This highlights the challenges faced by many immigrants who are caught between their desire to belong and the restrictions imposed by immigration policies.

The essay also delves into the author's own experience of obtaining American citizenship. Mukherjee details the bureaucratic hurdles and paperwork involved in the process, emphasizing the complexities and inequalities of the immigration system. She highlights the contrast between her own relatively seamless journey towards citizenship and her sister's struggles, shedding light on the disparities faced by immigrants in America.

The Complexity of Belonging

Through her personal narrative, Mukherjee highlights the complex nature of belonging in a multicultural society like America. She acknowledges that while she and her sister both belong in America, they belong in different ways. Mukherjee argues that true belonging cannot be reduced to legal status or citizenship, but is instead a deeply personal and nuanced experience.

Furthermore, Mukherjee challenges the notion of a singular American identity. She argues that America is a country of immigrants, and that the diversity of its population should be celebrated rather than suppressed. She states, "America is not a blanket, woven from one thread, one color, one cloth." This assertion challenges the homogenizing tendencies often associated with the concept of national identity and emphasizes the importance of recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of different cultures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Two Ways to Belong in America" provides a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of immigration and the notion of belonging. Through her personal experiences and reflections, Mukherjee raises important questions about identity, citizenship, and the impact of immigration policies. This essay serves as a reminder that belonging is not a one-size-fits-all concept and that it encompasses a myriad of experiences and perspectives. As a multicultural society, it is crucial for America to embrace and celebrate the diversity of its population, recognizing that there are indeed "two ways to belong in America."