Assimilation - The great American Melting Pot?

Assimilation, the merging of cultural traits from previously distinct cultural goups, provides a method of conflict reolution where it is hoped that the sum of the whole is greater than its individual parts. Our country was founded on the strength of many cultures and peoples (mainly from Europe) coming together to form a new union, and this is still occurring as immigrants from new lands continue to assimilate into the American way of life.

As a means of resolving conflict, however, assimilation is not an easy process, nor is it without its own major struggles. Ethnic assimilation asks that individuals give up their native language in public settings to interact with the mainstream society, and native cultural norms take a backseat to dominant norms in the new setting.

Overall theme: You have to give something up in order to assimilate. This may be voluntary, or it may be coerced.

Examples:
In Coaching: Once players join a new team, they need to learn new schemes and accept their position / role with the new team.
In teaching: Very evident with students that are non-native speakers. There is an article in the March 15th New York Times entitled: "Where Education and Assimilation Collide"