The dichotomy of assimilation versus the celebration of cultural heritage is an ongoing challenge among minorities in America. Some believe assimilation brings equality. Assimilation is where an individual takes on the traditions, language and ways of a new culture in which they move into, and for the most part, they cease to practice the ways of their native culture. On the opposite of the spectrum lies the idea that when an individual moves into a new culture, they continue to practice and celebrate the ways of their original culture. Especially because of the aftermath of post-slavery American, minority writers of the twentieth century took differing stances on cultural identity. Langston Hughes, an African-American twentieth century writer, favored celebrating cultural heritage over assimilation. He saw great importance in embracing black culture, and wanted other black individuals to do the same, rather than try to hide their black identities in a white dominated nation. In his poem, “Democracy”, Hughes writes: Democracy will not come Today, this year Nor ever Through compromise and fear. (1-4). …show more content…
A monarchy in which the white people were the rulers. African-Americans did not have equality or freedom; therefor, they were not living in a true democracy. Some individuals thought compromise and fear, or assimilation, was necessary to accomplish equality. Contrary to this belief, Hughes felt blacks would never obtain equality through assimilation. Furthering his opposition to assimilation, Hughes declares, “I tired so of hearing people say, / Let things take their course. Tomorrow is another day” (“Democracy” 1094). As many people reluctantly accepted their positions and thought conditions would eventually improve, Hughes refused to think this