On the way from Newport to Reedsport, OR we stopped to check out the Sea Lions’ Cave. It was wonderful to see them so close laying on each other. But we didn’t expect to find our countrymen there. In the gift shop. Group of five dressed in leather are having a big road trip from San Diego to Seattle by brutal motorbikes. It seemed too odd to meet them so we thought it’s time for our “Russians in America” topic.
So who are they? The ones who study, the ones who work and the ones who just have Russians roots. All differ, all not the same. But mostly it’s a strong personality and a book-deserving-story.
Natasha grew up and got her education in Russia. She has found courage to leave her family, friends and come to the US. She is working hard to achieve her “American dream”. But her inside gravitates to Russian culture, traditions and community. Where they recognize familiar to Russians jokes as only American would get knock-knock like humor.
Another guy only lived in Russia for 15 years. After he moved to the USA in 80s with his parents. He was assigned to a High School and this is where assimilation has started. He changed his Russian name to more common for Americans - Matt. In additional English classes he was getting rid of Russian accent. And on the top of this all Matt was spending his free time getting to know American culture better. Now he even prefers “Bugs Bunny” to famous soviet “Nu pogodi!” cartoons. He seemed to us an American who speaks Russian fluently.
Sue is an American born daughter of Russian immigrants. She lived and studied among Americans. But inside the family they always kept the Russian spirit. Getting together, reading Russian poetry, playing music till 4am. Some certain parts are missing this in a grown up life now, but she is still sure 100% American.
The USA is well-known melting pot for cultures and nations. As time will pass by all of them will assimilate more and more. But as every American they will always remember where they came from.
All names were changed.
What unites them? Are they all bikers? Or they have Russian roots in the first place and motorcycles are in the second.
ReplyDeleteHow had you recognized them as Russians? Did they speak between themselves in Russian?
Group of bikers from Ekaterinburg was just a reason to write this post :) other 3 guys are the subject. They are all russian americans. They speak russian, have russian roots and live in the US.
ReplyDelete