In similarly abstract terms, Jindal can also be readily cited as an exemplar for self-denying American racists. As the most educated and privileged minority, Indian-Americans have become touted as proof that the American Dream is still alive, and that other minorities are personally at fault for not achieving it. Haley articulated this viewpoint perfectly at the Republican National Convention last August, when she stated that “[her] parents loved that when they came to America, if you worked hard, the only things that could stop you were the limits you placed on yourself.”

I may just be a total pessimist, but I no longer think that this is true in America. It may be more plausible to achieve success than in other countries, it is becoming increasingly hard for me to believe that anyone can do anything they set their mind to. Furthermore, I think class has a much larger impact on chances for success than race or immigration status.

I know very little about Bobby Jindal, but it seems that he was born wealthy and privileged and that status allowed him to achieve the things that he did. That status overruled his Indian or immigrant status and gave him the chance to obtain the "White Indian" status. I'm sure we wouldn't be reading his story if he had been the exact same person not born of privilege.