Dave Albertine,
Portland, OR
I spent my life teaching hundreds of children and working hard to lift these young people up, and celebrate their cultures, experiences and be honest about our history. Now I feel lost. I am exceedingly proud of my American heritage and my Italian lineage, but now I feel reticence to celebrate this, especially as an older white man in a changing culture. My family came through Ellis Island, struggled, worked hard, helped build Chicago, persisted in adversity, lived on very little, yet encouraged us all to contribute to America, become educated and live good and full lives. Now I don’t know if I should be ashamed of the opportunities and privileges that I have received and in many ways worked to achieve. My sons are successful, one serving as a critical care nurse, another a diplomat and one working hard to build his life. What do I tell them?
