Insights and Considerations for Indian Immigrants in the U.S.
India, a land of rich culture and vast diversity, has always been at the heart of the global narrative. However, as Indian immigrants settle in the United States, they bring with them a mix of traditional values and modern expectations. This article delves into the insights and considerations regarding the challenges and observations that Indian immigrants face in the U.S.
Professional Standards and Values
The world of Indian immigrants in the U.S. is often characterized by a striking emphasis on professionalism. Unfortunately, this zeal sometimes translates into unethical practices such as fake resumes and inflated qualifications.
As Dr. Balaji Vishwanathab mentioned in his answer, the issue of fake resumes is a significant concern. In 1999, the author faced the challenge of reviewing over 100 resumes, only to find them consistently filled with buzzwords or fabricated projects. Today, this problem has escalated to the point where even during interviews, candidates might resort to sharing screens to complete tasks, indicating a grave integrity issue.
Show-Off Culture in the U.S.
Another aspect of Indian immigrants in the U.S. is the exaggeration of personal success and possessions. There is a strong competitiveness among Indians regarding housing, cars, and every other aspect of life. However, this competition often comes at the cost of quality family life and genuine human connections.
According to the author, many Indian immigrants spend 14 to 16 hours a day at work, lacking time for family and personal well-being. They often participate in weekend parties to showcase their achievements, while their vacations are spent in India. This mindset is reflective of a lack of balance and contentment in life.
Cultural Discrimination and Customs
Cultural discrimination and customs are prevalent among Indian immigrants, even in the predominantly multicultural environment of the U.S. For example, the author witnessed how Indian immigrants discriminate against people of different states or backgrounds within temples and other communal spaces. This segregation further dilutes the spirit of a melting pot society.
Moreover, the practice of separately worshipping different gods based on cultural or linguistic backgrounds perpetuates division rather than unity. While welcoming white individuals into temples, Indians often reject others from the same country but different states, showing a form of internal discrimination.
Religious and National Oaths
Upon becoming U.S. citizens, Indian immigrants often take the pledge to uphold the Constitution and respect the laws of the land. However, the author questions the commitment to follow through with this oath, citing instances where Indian immigrants do not even respect their own national anthem, which they sang daily in India.
This lack of seriousness extends to education, where parents burden their children with excessive coursework and extracurricular activities. The result is a generation of alienated youth who struggle to integrate into American society and form meaningful connections. Indians in America often prioritize academic success over social interaction and physical sports.
Philosophical and Political Stance
The political participation of Indian immigrants in U.S. city politics has been a subject of debate. Many argue that their involvement is driven by personal gain and corruption, rather than genuine desire to improve conditions.
The author expresses concern that Indians might see the U.S. as a reflection of India, leading to a lack of civic responsibility and an overemphasis on personal advancement. This is a significant challenge for integrating into the civic life of the United States.
Physical and Social Issues
Physical and social issues also pose a challenge for Indian immigrants in the U.S. Indian cooking often results in body odors, especially from spices. While this is not exclusive to Indians, it is a notable concern in a society that values cleanliness and personal hygiene.
Moreover, the celebration of Independence Day can sometimes be seen as over-enthusiastic or performative, showing more pride in Indian culture than necessary. This sometimes overshadows the spirit of diversity and unity that comes with American citizenship.
Conclusion
Indian immigrants in the U.S. bring a unique set of cultural and professional values, but these bring their own set of challenges. Balancing traditional values with American ideals is crucial for successful integration. While many Indian immigrants are highly professional and successful, it is important to address issues such as integrity in the workplace, the importance of family life, and the need for genuine inclusion in society.