Author: Namulinde Nnaggenda

  • Lana Del American Dream

    Throughout all her songs, famous American singer Lana Del Ray constantly alludes to the American dream an I was curious to know why. Lana Del Rey’s music captures the essence of the American dream with a haunting and nostalgic allure. Through her soulful melodies and evocative lyrics, she delves into themes of longing, desire, and…

  • “I have a dream”

    Having recently heard Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech for the first time, I was moved by his speech considering the time it was given. His speech resonates with the essence of the American Dream, envisioning a nation where individuals are judged not by the color of their skin but by…

  • Notes of an Undocumented American

    This week, I started reading the book “Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen” by Jose Antonio Vargas. He journals about his experience leaving his mother and moving to America from the Philippines. His memoir explores the complexities surrounding the American Dream, particularly for undocumented immigrants. He sheds light on the harsh realities faced by…

  • If I can Dream

    Over spring break, I watched the Elvis movie. The movie covered the 1968 performance that Elvis gave in wake of Martin Luther King’s assassination. Elvis passionately sings about “If I can dream of a better land, where all my brothers walk hand in hand” Elvis alludes to the American dream as outlined in the founding…

  • Could I achieve this?

    This week, I wanted to focus on introspection, specifically whether I believe that I could achieve the American dream. I believe that it is important for each of us to be aware of the privileges we hold and where we stand with society (our positionality). As an American who grew up abroad, I had the…

  • Roe v Wade

    On June of 2022, the supreme court overturned Roe v. Wade. This represents a significant setback for the American Dream for women in America. This 1973 Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade has stood as a symbol of women’s reproductive rights and autonomy, ensuring access to safe and legal abortion. However, the reversal of this…

  • Freedom from want

    Norman Rockwell Completed in 1943, this painting is the third painting of the Four Freedoms series by renowned American artist Norman Rockwell. The series was inspired by President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s historic 1941 State of the Union Address, famously known as the Four Freedoms speech. I came across this painting when I was thinking about…

  • Griselda Blanco

    WARNING: This post may contain spoilers for the Netflix show Griselda Blanco. The Netflix series “Griselda” portrays the life of Colombian drug dealer Griselda Blanco, who flees her hometown of Medellín, Colombia, to seek a better life in Miami, Florida. In the words of Lupsha, she’s not looking to make her success through the ways…

  • Empire State of mind

    The song ‘Empire state of mind’ by Jay Z featuring Alicia keys relates to the modern day aspiration of the American dream. Released in 2009, this popular song falls in line with the idea that America is the ” land of the free” with endless opportunities. Despite being a tribute to New York, this song…

  • About

    About

    My name is Namulinde Nnaggenda. I am a Business Economics Major with a minor in computer science. I’ve included some collages that I would like to think encapsulate the American dream visually. Hopefully these can inspire some reflection for you and what ideas, places and objects you associate with the American dream.