What is the American Dream? By dictionary definition, it is, “the idea that every US citizen should have an equal opportunity to achieve success and prosperity through hard work, determination, and initiative.” James Truslow Adams created the idea in 1931; he was referring to “The dream of a land in which life should be better and richer and fuller for every man, with opportunity for each according to his ability or achievement.” 

Some may argue the American Dream doesn’t exist; humans just simply earn what they deserve. But what does it mean when people say the American Dream is dead? Mike Fanning, head of MassMutual US, says, “Americans believe financial security is at the core of the American Dream, but it is alarming that so many think it is beyond their reach.” More now than ever, humans have gotten lackadaisical since the idea of the American Dream came to be. May that be from our advanced technology, or simply an increase of lack of motivation, but many believe that it no longer exists due to those claims. As the world becomes increasingly digital and other countries begin rivaling America’s opportunities,  I think at times we’re all wondering if it really is dying.

Although, another side says no, the American Dream is not dead. Immigrants who become citizens of our free country can testify for this claim. Sal Santoro tells the story of how his father immigrated to America from Italy at 15 years old, just to build a better life for himself. Through time, his father became a citizen, got married, and got a job as a tailor so he could provide for his developing family. He even served his new country in World War II. Santoro’s father’s story proves, for him at least, that the American Dream is alive and well.

Kariah, an immigrant from Egypt, talks about his years teaching in Saudi Arabia. “Nothing ever changes, the culture lets you know that you’re a stranger no matter how long you’re there. America isn’t like that, the culture here changes all the time.” He mentions that he never felt a part of the country where his family still resides. He has been a green-card holder for 3 years now and hopes to become a citizen to bring his family back to America, so they can experience the dream. Kariah continued to talk in awe of this great country, “You can dream any dream and make it happen here. Just move. Just work.”

It’s sad to say immigrants understand the American Dream better than many Americans do. Obviously, Americans don’t know what it’s like to live in the Middle East or another under-developed country, but we tend to overlook our privilege and take our freedom for granted. So many people in 3rd world countries would do anything to experience the American Dream, yet we experience it daily and are oblivious to the fact that we’re living it. 

Do I understand that America has issues and many things to improve on? Yes, of course. But do I also understand there are countries out there who persecute their citizens for disagreeing with a politician, who persecute their citizens for practicing their preferred religion, or who persecute citizens for speaking their own opinion?  Truthfully, no, I don’t understand. I don’t understand because I live the American Dream and I could never begin to imagine what it’s like for the people who don’t have the rights I do.

As I researched the American Dream, I was reminded that America is a beacon of hope in this cruel world. We must protect our legacy and make certain our nation’s light never goes out. If we remember the reasons many immigrants want to be here, we may remember how blessed we are to live the sweet, great American Dream.