From our American Correspondant Julie Eshelman-Lee Myriad ethnic groups contributed to this culture over the centuries, and as all cultures, ours evolved as a result. It is not one specific ethnic blend as the diverse ethnic groups who arrived in the colonial period each enhanced the culture and various traditions. Common aspects of our founding families include the French language, eventual Creole patois and the Catholic religion. Due to societal discrimination and civil laws over the centuries, the classification has taken many variations, polarizing and fragmenting the families, forcing migration to other areas of the country and the world in search of a better opportunity for families and future generations. For some the experiences were difficult, leaving anger and resentment as their legacy. For others, leaving behind their heritage was the only choice for a new beginning. In this 21st century we come back together to embrace who we have always been and to set an example for all of those after us to embrace what we have in common, understand what we hold dear and unique and learn to live as one race with many faces tm. Our best course is our future and that first step starts today. We come together today to celebrate what we have in common, understand our differences and build our future. We focus on what's ahead and saving our cultural assets, traditions and history so that what our ancestors gave us will remain an integral part of who each and every one of our children are in the future. Louisianans are a unique people and have experience in facing adversity and rising above it all and beyond. Lt. General Russel L. Honore, commander of Joint Task Force Katrina, is our shining example of a great American with Louisiana Creole heritage. May we all come together worldwide in a positive way to preserve a very unique culture and its languages and traditions. Our ancestors knew who they were, history forced us to turn separate paths for self preservation, and today we celebrate coming together. |
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