What does it mean to be an American?

An American, to me, is a patriotic, free, and liberated human being who has equal opportunity to succeed and dream. After studying and discussing poems with alternate definitions of Americans in class, I figured my vision would change, but surprisingly enough, my vision did not stray from my mind. Being the cousin of a New York City firefighter and EMT and the niece of a New York City police officer, my family was directly affected by the September 11th terrorist attacks. That event, which ultimately changed American history forever, instilled in me a particularly passionate feeling of patriotism toward my country and the soldiers, presidents, and proud citizens that represent it. Although my family feels cheated by intruders, I still believe that immigration is what keeps our country running smoothly. America is an admired place of residence, and I believe citizens should welcome those that are strong enough to join our powerhouse. Therefore, I particularly connected to “The New Colossus,” not only because it’s main “character” is the Statue of Liberty in New York City, but also because “the mighty woman with a torch” extends an offer other countries to “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free...I lift my lamp beside the golden door!” I stand by the image of the golden door, because I believe that America is heaven. I stand by the image of breathing free in America, because we are a democratic country free of governmental interference and we can be educated and determined leaders of our own lives. Since 9/11, I perceive America as the ultimate golden door or entrance to diversity, a place of “world-wide welcome.”