But what seems to emerge from the Keflezighi/Tsarnaev example is the ephemeral nature of American identity . Sally Kohn : Boston Marathon winner was rightly described as `` an American '' Kohn : Often the term `` American '' is used to show approval , and withheld to marginalize people . Kohn : People of color and immigrants are particularly likely to be stripped of American label . The New York Times has a story about how the Boston bombing changed everything for the victims in their lives -- but also for those who were trying to help them.
Sally Kohn : Boston Marathon winner was rightly described as `` an American '' Kohn : Often the term `` American '' is used to show approval , and withheld to marginalize people . Kohn : People of color and immigrants are particularly likely to be stripped of American label . The New York Times has a story about how the Boston bombing changed everything for the victims in their lives -- but also for those who were trying to help them.