Hey everyone,
I know this might be a bit unusual, but I wanted to share something personal with you all. I’m not an American citizen. I wasn’t born in the U.S., and I don’t live there right now. But I’ve grown up admiring America - not as some perfect fantasy, but as a place where freedom, individuality, and self-made identity actually mean something.

A few days ago, I custom printed this shirt - it says:

“PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN
I’M NOT ASKING TO BELONG
I’M CLAIMING WHAT’S MINE!”

I know some people might find that bold, or even inappropriate coming from someone who wasn’t born in the States. But to me, this isn’t cosplay. This is manifestation.
I believe identity isn’t about where you start - it’s about what you build, what you fight for, and the values you choose to live by.

Growing up in ASIA, I’ve had to deal with people mocking my dreams. I’ve heard every line —

“You’ll never be American.”
“You don’t look like one.”
“You’re just obsessed with the West.”

But they don’t understand: I’m not trying to escape. I’m trying to become who I was meant to be.
🇺🇸 I study American culture and history.
🇺🇸 I celebrate the 4th of July.
🇺🇸 I’ve changed how I speak, how I think, how I live.
This isn’t just admiration. It’s alignment.

I wear this shirt not to pretend - but to affirm. I’m claiming my future.
And by God’s grace, one day, I’ll become American - not just in spirit, but in law.

To those of you who were born there - never forget how lucky you are. And if I’m ever one of you, I’ll carry the responsibility of that identity with pride.

Belated Happy 4th of July to all Americans out there —
Some of us are still celebrating from afar 🇺🇸



I’m not American (yet)… but I wear this shirt with pride because I’m manifesting the future I believe in 🇺🇸