As far as models of diversity go, I thought we dumped the cauldron and dispensed with the melting pot idea long ago. I think the late ‘70s was the first time I started hearing about the salad bowl as the new model for diversity.
It made sense to me. It was healthier, too. Let the bell peppers be bell peppers, the cukes be cukes, the baby spinach and the lettuce mix. Add some kale. Let them all keep their precious identity.
Throw in a few croutons, and bacon bits, too, if you must.
And these days, squirt some Sriracha sauce in the dressing, if we’re going to be truly multicultural.
Lately, however, I’m hearing less about the salad bowl, and getting a sense of nostalgia for the cauldron. The “melting pot” did have an easy kind of appeal. Who can argue with “blending in”?
OK, but when it all cools down and chills over night, what are you left with? Velveeta?
That’s not even cheese. That’s a processed “food product.” And what about us chunks that refuse to melt down?
