America's Leader

The leader of the most powerful country on earth has divided the world in two, using a scatological epithet to describe what he sees as the inferior part. If poor and colored are the criteria for lesser countries, then I come from one of these.

Six months ago, early in this presidency, I had the opportunity to meet Joe Biden, erstwhile US Vice President. In an anxious state of mind, I told him I was an immigrant and asked if I had made a mistake. His gracious words offered comfort to my troubled being. He said, “Thank you for choosing us”. And now this…

We choose this country because we admire what it stands for - inclusiveness and opportunity, freedom and fairness - all combining to create a safe environment of civility and dignity. This week, my chosen state has witnessed hate messages that are characteristic of the Nazis and the KKK. This leader has given sanction for the worst in America to surface once again.

I was born in a Hindu family and married a man with a white European father and a Muslim mother. Differences of country and color and creed have never defined the people in my world. But today I question my choice of home. Is this the place I want to live?