World Cup Highlights Multiculturalism and Assimilation in the U.S.

During the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, N.J., one of President Trump’s retweets went largely unnoticed. Many missed it amidst the ongoing fervor for the World Cup. The retweet expressed disapproval over Somali immigrant children wearing hijabs at a kindergarten graduation. These children were participating in a ceremony at a public charter school, wearing traditional caps and gowns. They were integrating into society, showcasing what immigrant families aim to achieve.

The debate between multiculturalism champions and assimilation advocates seemed to collapse during the World Cup. The event highlighted America as a nation where both ideas coexist. Sports, often praised for uniting people, illustrated this fact clearly. Fans with diverse backgrounds came together, unified by their passion for soccer and their nation.

American soccer fans epitomized this duality. Many supported the U.S. team while cherishing connections to ancestral teams. In Anaheim, Calif., people celebrated both American and Mexican victories with equal fervor. On July 4, they donned red, white, and blue, while green dominated on July 5 for the Mexico-England game.

The World Cup allowed people to embrace and share cultural pride. Visitors to the U.S. experienced 250 years of cultural evolution. Immigrants have learned the language and contributed elements like food, art, and music to American culture. The gameday atmosphere featured uniquely American traditions like halftime shows and tailgating, appreciated by Europeans after initial skepticism.

In the U.S., soccer fandom evolved. Names like Real Salt Lake and Houston Dynamo FC aimed for legitimacy. Yet, America made its mark with unique traditions like singing John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” It became an anthem for the national team, composed of immigrants, birthright citizens, and representatives of multiculturalism and assimilation.

Politicians push for exclusive adherence to one cultural philosophy. True multiculturalism would exclude caps, gowns, and English from immigrant ceremonies. Pure assimilation would erase cultural identifiers like hijabs. America demonstrates harmony through participation and contribution, embodying a rich cultural symphony.

This harmony puzzled Trump and his supporters, revealing a persistent fear of immigrants. Instead, Americans should act maturely and value the contributions immigrants bring. The World Cup displayed this unity, underscoring that acceptance doesn’t need a major event to flourish.

Joslin Joseph, a Military Reporters and Editors award recipient for Best Commentary-Opinion, served in Iraq as a Marine veteran. A Harvard and Ohio State graduate, he resides in Anaheim, Calif.