Problem Solved...Kind Of
At this point of time in Lawrence, Dominicans and Puerto Ricans did not get along, period. We both are very prideful races and sometimes that creates conflict and debate as to which race is better. Unlike in the Dominican Republic, English is required in Puerto Rico, meaning I could facilitate my assimilation through my neighbors. However, the real problem was whether or not they would talk to me given the fact my family was one of three households in the whole street that was Dominican. To my surprise I was actually welcomed to hang out by many of them. It wasn't long until I learned English and became what my parents call "Americanized". This process includes losing part of one’s own culture and adapting to the American way of living. In my case it meant that I started speaking less Spanish, which made it more difficult to convey messages to my parents, therefor hindering our relationship. This transition is unique given the fact that I practically swapped the adversity of not knowing English for a less understanding of my own native tongue. Although this outcome was inauspicious for my parents, it was necessary in order for me to gain a descent education in the United States.