Interview: My Grandma Aniko, a Hungarian Immigrant
1. What were your reasons for escaping to or coming to America?
A: I escaped from Communist Hungary. The Hungarian people rose up against soviet occupation in 1956, but when the Revolution failed we we were unarmed against the Russian tanks, many Hungarians escaped, hoping to find a better world.
2. To what degree of isolation from the rest of society did you feel in the early months of being in America? If any.
A: None. The american people were very welcoming, wanting to help with my language difficulties, introduce the "american way" and I appreciated it very much.
3. Did you spend time with people solely of your origin (Hungarians)? If not with who did you spend your time with?
A: Yes, whenever one Hungarian "bumped into" another Hungarian we formed friendships, and were exchanging experiences in our new country. But we all wanted to "fit in" .Our primary goal was to learn English so we could hold a better job, and as soon as possible achieve the "american dream"
4. How much of your Hungarian recipes did you bring with you into America?
A: None, escaping middle of the night, it was not on my mind.
5. How did you help your children blend into American culture?
A: My children were born here, they were Americans. I made it a point to associate with my children's friends, parents.
6. Did you and your children grow together or apart after your children became more American?
A: This was not an issue. My children were very aware of my Hungarian roots, we spoke Hungarian at home. I wanted them to keep and be aware of their Hungarian heritage, but there was no doubt that America was our Country, where we made our life.
7. When it comes to your children’s names did you want Hungarian or American names for them? OR did you find a blend between the two?
A: We looked for "international" names. There are many, like Anna, Peter, John. I did not want them to have a typical Hungarian name, and have a problem with it with their friends or in school. But also wanted my parents in Hungary to call their grandchildren by a familiar name.
8. How often did you take your children back to the homeland?
A: As often as possible. At first we were not permitted to go back to Hungary, would have been arrested, because we escaped. But when we all got amnesty, it was only a question of money.
9. If you could change one thing or anything about your migration to America what would you change?
A: Nothing. I worked hard to be part of the "melting pot" this was in the best interest for my family.
10. Pros and Cons of America….What do you love most and what do you hate most?
A: I often say to my american friends, that I am a better american than they are, because I know the difference. I know what a wonderful Country this is, and not taking it for granted. I appreciate most of all our freedom. We can criticize our Government, don't have to be afraid that the police will knock on our door in the middle of the night, we have freedom to exercise our religion. We all have unlimited opportunities for economical advancement, and if we work hard, and do our best, we can achieve our dreams. I like the idea, that it is up to me.
But with freedom, comes responsibility. I don't like, when we shed our responsibilities, and expect someone else to fix our problems, without we trying first. I don't hate anything about this Country. I might be critical, I might be upset over things here and there, but I don't hate anything.
A: I was 19, a teenager, so somehow I felt it important to bring my journals, which I have to this day. I also brought a few items of warm clothing.
12. Follow up question: Where did you go to first after you escaped Hungary?
A: We left in the middle of the night and traveled to the country side towards the border of Austria. occasionally we ran into other Hungarians who were also attempting to escape. The Russians were looking for us and used "spotlights" that we had to avoid. Once we got to Austria, we stayed in a refugee camp. This is where your Grandfather wrote letters to prominent bankers in America to see if they would sponsor us to come over. The President of The Bank of Providence (Rhode Island) paid for our trip to Rhode Island, gave your Grandfather a job, and set us up in a furnished apartment.
13. Follow up question: You said you wanted to be part of the "melting pot" does that mean you became an American citizen?
A: Yes I did, I worked very hard to learn English and American history, so I could pass the test. I'll always remember the day I was sworn in, I was so proud to become an American Citizen.
14. Follow up question: I'll give you some time to think and compare and contrast. What do you consider your home now New York, or Budapest?
A: It's funny that you should ask that, because I ask myself that same question all the time. I would say that I consider New York my home because this is where my children and grandchildren live, but when I am at my apartment in Hungary I feel that same feeling of home.
15. Fallow up question: As you were sponsored on your way to America, did you come through Ellis Island?
A: No, I came through Alaska, I almost missed the flight to Rhode Island. I was in the gift shop looking at things that I've never seen before.
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