As an international student hailing from the fragrant harbors of a faraway island “nation”, Super Bowl Sunday was never a day set aside to gorge on pretzels and indulge in the very American spectacle known as football. Even though much of the world knows football as another sport predominantly played with feet, the cultural immersion I sought after despite my background turned out to be surprisingly rewarding.

The Super Bowl XLVIII fought between the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks was not so much characterized by the embarrassing result for the former as the wonderfully quirky and hotly debated advertisements broadcasted. Notably, Coca Cola’s stirring rendition of “America the Beautiful” in various languages like Hindi and Arabic, drew both scathing criticism and passionate support from Twitter and Facebook users and even politicians and conservative think-tanks. Of those who added their two cents to the discourse, it was clear that many felt culturally threatened and resented the fact that the song was not sung in its original English. At the same time, an equally vocal population applauded Coca Cola’s celebration of America’s ethnic and cultural diversity.

I have a deep fondness for Coca Cola as a thirst quencher, and having watched the commercial countless times, I only love the company more for raising such an important point on the most viewed TV program in US history: No matter who you are or where you’re from, the United States of America is a nation of greater richness and beauty because of you.

Unfortunately, many responses reflect how deeply entrenched feelings of cultural superiority and prejudice still are in this country. Statements like “I am truly disappointed in @Coca Cola for the offensive #SpeakAmerican commercial last night. Speak English!” are laced with such ignorance and intolerance that conveniently neglect the fact that the nation was built upon the arrival and flourishing of foreigners. If all men are created equal, then all are more than deserving of the right and opportunity to praise and adore the country in their own unique manner. Furthermore, is it not more magnificent that a dizzying array of people can brush their differences aside and unite to see through the same eyes that America is beautiful?

The alarming insensitivity demonstrated by the reactions also raises an important trait left to be desired: cultural competence. The first step of acceptance is key, but more critical is a knowledge and subsequent appreciation of other countries’ traditions, values and circumstances. Given that USC prides itself on the nation’s largest international student body, it is easy to find someone who calls another country home. Believe it or not, living thousands of miles away from family and adapting to a radically different lifestyle, all while trying to cope with schoolwork and a lack of quality home food is more difficult than locals would think. In spite of the constant struggle, these students are a treasure trove of incredible travel experiences and life stories just waiting to be discovered. Similarly, international students should take advantage of limitless opportunities to explore and enjoy the American culture. Only through this process will one gain genuine awareness and empathy for the spectrum of people around them.

There is no one way to celebrate a nation’s achievements and triumphs, just like there is no one way to be American. Even if this country once demanded that the song be sung in English, this does not mean that the culture cannot evolve. As both globalization and glocalization continue to shape all facets of interactions, conventional beliefs and practices are bound to adapt to the present context. How ridiculous would it be if traditional Chinese chefs openly hated on Panda Express’ walnut shrimp because “Chinese food should be made in a certain way”?

As USC students, we all have the privilege and responsibility of thinking global and seeing global. Diversity is not what only makes America great for it is what makes the world great. May we continue to embrace all members of the community and remind ourselves that though life as a box of chocolates would be delicious, it is always better to pick M&M’s.

 

Reach contributor Jason Cheng here.