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Describe your ethnic, racial, and cultural background.

African American male from Houston Texas

What generation in the U.S. do you represent?

Generation X

Where do your ancestors come from?

My mother is from Camden Arkansas and my Father is from Houston Texas

How did they get here? They were both born in those places

Why did they come here?

My ancestors were brought into this country through slavery. They did not come by choice they were forced. Once here they were sold into slavery to work on plantations.

What positive or negative migration experiences do you or other members of your family remember?

Negative was racism, there were unfair laws that prevented people of color of owning anything and doing things that others were afford to have.

Positive over decades time has given opportunity to monorities to have sucesss in many different areas but it only came with time. There are still many struggles minorities faces in this country today.

How easy or difficult was it for them to adapt to life in this country at the time?

It was not easy to adapt, initially my ancestors where not even allowed to learn to read and write.

Did they or you experience rejection or prejudice based on race, religion, or nationality?

Abosoulely I myself experienced racism in the military. I was looked over for awards and many other opportunities that I was more qualified than others. However I still pushed toward promotions and rank so I could et to the top and make changes to a broken system that I had experienced

What social conflicts have you or your family experienced within the mainstream American culture?

There is a social bias on people of color no matter what state in America you go to.

Does your immediate family or extended family practice any cultural celebrations, customs, or traditions What are some of them?

Being from Texas my family celebrates June Teenth. This is where slavey was finally abolished in Texas. Up until this year it was not recognized as a national holiday but it is now. Many people from other states were not even aware of this holiday. Also celebrating thanksgiving and Christmas with my family because we be able to come together and be grateful for each other.

Which do you value most?

I value June Teenth the most because we are able to express our freedom and be proud of our black culture and roots

Do any language barriers impact you and your family? If so, explain.

No