Most of my life I was occupied with American television and American food. My ethnicity was my choice. It still is.
This quote speaks to the fluidity of identity and the influence of culture on personal self-perception. It highlights how cultural consumption — such as television and food — can serve as a gateway to understanding and embracing different aspects of oneself, especially in the context of ethnicity or cultural heritage. The speaker’s acknowledgment that their ethnicity was a choice underscores the idea that identity is not solely dictated by genetics or background, but can also be shaped by the environment, interests, and values they adopt over time. In a broader sense, it challenges traditional notions of ethnicity being innate, instead suggesting that cultural belonging can be consciously selected and redefined. The reference to American television and food signifies a fascination or immersion in American culture, which may have provided the individual with a sense of community, understanding, or self-expression that transcended their original cultural roots. This approach to identity emphasizes agency and personal autonomy, advocating that one’s sense of self can be an ongoing, deliberate act. It also raises important questions about assimilation, cultural preservation, and the importance of authentic self-identification in a multicultural society. Ultimately, the quote invites reflection on how our choices shape our identities and how cultural immersion can be empowering in defining who we are, rather than being confined by ancestral or societal labels.
