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[Name Redacted] is a 19 year old first generation Sri-Lankan Immigrant. Sinhalese, Buddhist and Queer by birth, he’s lived a largely happy life despite feeling like an outsider in the places they should feel at home. This transcript details some of his life experiences and the formation of a rich and complex identity informed by a vast array of life-events. Specifically, the narrative focuses on their decision and process of coming and living in United States. Initially, he came to America seeking an education but in many ways he has found acceptance and a place that he belongs. This process has greatly influenced his life and how he relates to history.
This interview was conducted as part of an undergraduate final project for the University of Maryland, College Park course HIST428M: "Foreigners as Citizens: Recording Oral Histories of Immigration" (Fall 2015). This course was led by Professor Anne Rush of the History Department, College of Arts and Humanities, and was sponsored by the Center for the New America
This interview chronicles the immigration progress of Chak Beh in his peregrination toward America. Chak left Malaysia in 1979 as a result of the ethnic discrimination that he faced; as a minority he was subjected to the biased laws of the ruling majority. Currently Chak is an avid fan of cooking and woodworking as well as raising his three sons. Chak tells a fascinating story of his trials, hardships, and successes – all of which led him to become the person he is today.
Asha Simon chronicles her journey from South Africa to Thailand to the United States. Her journey addresses issues of cultural adjustment, discrimination, and family.
Kachisiso Achebe (pseudonym) describes the transition from Nigeria to the United States, differences in culture, the effect of the economy on immigrants and their employment, as well as education in the USA.
Thea LaFond relates her immigration to the United States from Dominica as a young child. Her account details her initial perceptions of America and popular culture, her family's move to DC Metro area, as well as immigrant assimilation in the United States.
