Ethnic identities and celebrating diversity

Re “Latinos don’t need a made-up identity,” Opinion, Sept. 29

This article points out a broader phenomenon -- reinventing ethnic identities in the context of the American civilization. “Multiculturalists display tremendous imagination,” writes Jose Enrique Idler. I must add that this is not just limited to Latinos. People (especially immigrants) just make up things about their roots because they are forced to have a vivid, politically correct ethnic identity. And in one or two generations, these hastily and carelessly created identities become authentic, historically undisputable facts. These peculiar Frankenstein cultures thrive all over, from Los Angeles to New York -- energized by the concept of multiculturalism. We are messing up the entire human history with an unprecedented vigor and excitement, including the very American identity. First it was a melting pot, and then it became a salad bowl. And now it is a cartoon collection!

REMO ALEXANDRI

Glendale

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What we Latinos do not need is an apologist to declare we do not need a made-up identity. We know that. We are aware, however, that to lessen the information gap that exists between many of us, it serves us well to celebrate diversity. Citizens by birth or choice, as well as new immigrants, are well served by understanding, and that is something worthy of celebration.

That enlightenment occurs under one tent, whatever it is called, is cause for rejoicing. Let there be a multitude of celebrations -- let it be witnessed that the Mexican immigrant and the Puerto Rican have differences, and let all know that there also is much that is familiar to both.

ANGEL LUIS MARTINEZ

Santa Ana