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I don't think that the issue is racism (although in some instances it is, of course), but heritage. I am concerned about Westernization, not pigmentation. And I favor the American version of assimilation, which does not obliterate ethnic attachments, but subordinates them to a common culture. However, it is understandable that there should be friction when emigres are acutely culturally distinctive, and show few signs of interest in becoming part of the culture of the host country. We tolerate that on a limited basis, and especially when it is part of one's religious tenets, as in the case of the Amish or Hasidim, but there is generally pressure to assimilate. In America, part of what ensures the melting pot is the pace of intermarriage. There is a high rate among various white ethnic groups, of course, including between Jews and Gentiles. This is a source of fretfulness to those who would like to sustain Jewish traditions in this country, but it is a good sign for the practical abatement of anti- semitism (among whites). There is also a high rate of intermarriage among Asians and those of European extraction. But the fascinating thing is that rates of intermarriage among blacks and whites is rising, although still comparatively small. About 20% of blacks intermarry. Of course, many "blacks" have white "blood" from ancient dalliances, anyway, and many more cross racial boundaries to date than actually get married. Exogamy is not only an index of assimilation, but promotes it....... |
