The traditions, as well as the portrayals of diverse minority traditions have been strongly shaped both positively and negatively by internal and external forces in America. Many of the minority religions throughout the United States have undergone Americanization after its introduction to the U.S. Multiple minority religions have been influenced by the American dominated Protestant Christianity.
Minority religions in America are often Americanized or viewed stereotypically in the eyes of many Americans. The Asian-oriented spiritual figure of the Dalai Lama has been transformed into an American iconic figure. In the excerpt, "The Oriental Monk in America Popular Culture," Jane Naomi Iwamura explains the introduction of this figure into American culture: "The Dalai Lama's "visitation" had been made possible by the Apple Corporation and the spiritual power of advertising. The vision derived its meaning not from a single epiphany, but rather through a series of mass media orientations: glossies in magazines; newspaper photos and references; images in film, television and the internet. Indeed, at times, His Holiness seemed to be everywhere at once."1 Iwamura emphasizes the American portrayal of the Dalai Lama as a spiritual figure esteem and emulation, and is often associated with Hindu and Buddhism. Both of these religions have undergone transformations after its introduction to the United States. Rather than adhering to the traditional practices and beliefs of these religions, American integrate the aspects they like into their everyday lives and religion. A common example of this is the practice of yoga, which derived from these religious traditions, and is now used as a form of exercise and stretching throughout the United States.2 In William Hutchinson's excerpt, "Just Behave Yourself: Pluralism as Selective Tolerance," he states, "In the midst of largely unanticipated social upheaval, Americans had managed to apply their pluralist ideals in very visible ways, and usually in perfect genuine, committed ways."3 Hutchinson's view reflects Iwamura's point of American ideas altering those of other foreign religions. By combining major Protestant ideals with minority religious views, pluralism is exemplified throughout America.
Minority religions also face negative stereotypes that are extremely evident throughout the United States. The Muslim and Sikh religions are often connoted as "bad" religions by many Americans. The cause of this probably originated from strong American pride related to the 9/11 terrorist attacks by Muslim terrorists. American pride has cause many to inherit beliefs that all Muslims are terrorists, even though this belief is not fair to the general Muslim population. Muslims are often persecuted in the Untied States as a cause misguided American beliefs. Though the United States claims religious freedom and equality, Americans often do not live up to their standards. Racism is also involved in the negative stereotyping of minority religions in America. Many often assume one's religion by their race. For example, Indian people are too often assumed to be Hindu and middle easterners are automatically assumed to be Muslim or Sikh.4 Even though racism is highly frowned upon because America is supposed to be a place of extreme diversity and equality, it is still prevalent throughout the country.
Minority religions in the United States have altered greatly since their original introduction to the United States. Not only has American views influenced these religions, but these religions have also altered the American lifestyle and culture. Even though a lot of positive aspects have come from the introduction of these religions in America, Americans have also created much negative commotion around some of these minority religions.
1. Jane Iwamura, The Orient Monk in American Culture, (California: UC Press, 2000), 25.
2. Mark Singleton, Yoga's Greater Truth, (Yoga Journal, November 2010).
3. William Hutchinson, Pluralism in the United States, (Ann Harbor Michigan: Sheridan Books, 2003), 57.
4. Khyati Y. Joshi, “The Racialization of Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism in the United States” (Massachusetts: Routledge, 2006), 215
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