Cultural Assimilation: Identities of Second-Generation Indian Americans

Abstract

Following the abolition of national origin quotas, the United States witnessed a substantial influx of Asian immigrants, with India accounting for 19 percent of incoming immigrants. Consequently, American society has become a mosaic of diverse cultures, often referred to as a "melting pot" or "salad bowl." However, this cultural diversity has profound implications for the offspring of immigrants, particularly second-generation Indian Americans, as they grapple with the intricate interplay between their Indian heritage and American upbringing. While the extant literature presents divergent viewpoints on the effects of cultural assimilation, it emphatically underscores the imperatives of inclusivity, cultural acceptance, and psychological support in mitigating the cultural and identity conflicts faced by second-generation Indian Americans. The review concludes by advocating for comprehensive interventions that foster a harmonious and inclusive approach to cultural assimilation, striking a delicate balance between the preservation of cultural heritage and the embrace of the enriching multicultural tapestry within the United States.