From The Editors

The issue we explore in our inaugural edition, ethnicity, is one that weighs into an important dimension

of American identity. Both timely and provocative, this important theme is central to our understanding

of how we place ourselves within a world community, whether political or cultural.

“Americanism” is a term that has come into popularity but hardly has a universal meaning. With a plurality

of ethnic backgrounds, we ought to focus on what brings people together as citizens of the United States,

not become engrossed in a “salad bowl” rather than “melting pot.” We hope that our first issue opens discussion

on this question.

Of course, the challenge in addressing such a complex issue is one of the multitude of vantage points.

Many have heard the valid maxim that “where we stand depends upon where we sit.” That is, our opinions

on an issue are usually shaped based on our frame of reference on the issue. Certainly, the attitude represented

by this perspective is one that is reductionist. The goal of The Lens is to reflect the spirit of a multidisciplinary,

liberal arts perspective. We hope you enjoy our first issue and consider the many components

of American ethnic identity.