The writers we’ve read so far this semester have all struggled in different ways with feeling like an outsider in the United States, regardless of their citizenship status. In a 4-5 page, thesis-driven essay that analyzes these writers’ experiences, and possibly your own, answer the following question:
In your own words, and going beyond the technical or legal definition, what does it mean to be a citizen? You should come up with a few criteria or main ideas to explore.
Assignment Readings
Brent Staples, “Black Men and Public Space”
Claudia Rankine, “You are in the car, in the dark”
Gloria Anzaldúa, “How To Tame A Wild Tongue”
Amy Tan, “Mother Tongue”
Jose Antonio Vargas, Dear America: Notes From An Undocumented Citizen
Sample Solution
