I am an American and proud

The results of my family DNA test are in: I am Hispanic. Yes, 7% of my ancestry has been traced to Spain and Portugal. It does not matter my name, skin color or where I was born – proof has been revealed.

Although 50% of my DNA is traced to the British Isles, 31% to Ireland, 4% to Russia and 2% to the Turkey/Armenia region, I choose to be Hispanic. You say I cannot choose? The president chooses to be black. If I am not Hispanic, then what am I?

Let’s explore the possibilities. Am I British? No, I am not in line to be king. Irish? It’s possible – I love St. Patrick’s Day and enjoy Guinness beer. Russian? No, I am a dreaded capitalist. Armenian? Maybe. I eat pilaf and shish kebab quite often.

The numbers are in – as a Hispanic in California, I am no longer a minority. No benefit. Well then, back to appearance. I am a bit pasty, pink really. No, that won’t help me. Liberals want me feel to feel guilty for that.

OK, how about American? Yes! Born here, raised here and proud to be! Hope you are, too.

This story was originally published December 27, 2015 at 4:15 AM with the headline "I am an American and proud."