Do We Know Our Fellow Americans? – Ambrin Masood
Travel abroad and you might wonder, “Why is the whole world interested in America?” But ask a foreigner and they’d say, “Why isn’t America interested in the rest of the world?” When they hear that Dr. Masood is from Pakistan, strangers often offer sympathy or ask whether she lived close to Syria. Pakistan, even after more than six decades of its existence, remains an enigma to the world. Dr. Masood teaches her audience about the real Pakistan she knows: Pakistani cricket, the spicy food, the resilience of people, the sheer beauty of the country, the warm and fabulous hospitality of Pakistanis. The United States is becoming increasingly diverse. By learning about various ethnic identities we can change negative ethnic group stereotypes, reduce intolerance, and enhance cooperation for the common good. Dr. Masood’s background in psychology make her the perfect person to lead an open, welcoming discussion that invites questions and increases understanding.