Shiny Toyota Tercel is a reminder of the dreams and sacrifices immigrants undertake for their families and themselves in search of a brighter future. Through its simple melody and storied lyrics, the listener gains a greater sense of understanding and appreciation of the diversity of cultures that help shape the fabric of American society while in turn becoming more aware and sensitive to the numerous challenges newcomers often face, including the challenge of learning a new language.
The Toyota Tercel, no longer in production since 1999, symbolizes the road to a better life in America, where all are welcome to traverse its highways and byways; this rite of passage, a fast-moving testament to the privileges enjoyed from freedom in a free land. The car, as it travels, is representative of that freedom, opening new avenues to explore for everyone in the family. The automobile carries the passengers on their way as they come and go on with their lives. It is the family car, and it sees more than it can say. In the course of its lifetime, it witnesses the struggles, sacrifices, daily living, triumphs, joys, sorrows, and tragedies of its passengers.
The song brings to mind classic rags-to-riches stories while serving as a paean to the Founding Fathers who wisely included the oft-quoted phrase “the pursuit of happiness” into their highest document, the US Constitution. It sends a powerful message to anyone who has faced discrimination in their lifetime due to color, culture, or community and persevered and suffered in the face of adversity as a result. Mrs. Chan gives us hope, providing one example of a newcomer who has succeeded in achieving her version of the American Dream, where there is a safe, healthy living environment with good medical care and educational opportunities for all, a place where all of her children can become doctors if they so choose. Mrs. Chan’s personal journey from living in a hovel to having her children graduate from an American university reminds us that with hard work and study, everyone’s dream can come true in America.
