But Where Are You “REALLY” From? My Foot in Mouth Moment
October 2, 2014Recently I was at an event in Las Vegas. One of the other attendees, a young man in his early 40s, arrived a day late. He had flown in from Bejing. As he had missed the opening icebreaker and I went over to introduce myself. When he spoke, his English was flawless. I was surprised and asked “Where are you from?”
The man responded, ”My family is from San Francisco.” I pressed on. “But where are your ancestors from?” Again he responded, “San Francisco.” It was then that I realized I had my foot in my mouth. You know what they say happens when you ASSUME…
I am always curious about other cultures – excited to learn about how people and places around the world. But when your curiosity about a different culture becomes uncomfortable for the other person, it’s no longer an interesting conversation.
With second and third generation immigrants living in the United States, Canada and elsewhere, some people may assume if your skin, hair or eyes are different that you are from somewhere else—and that can be insulting. “Where are you from?” means that you are not from here. In spite of being born here, being a citizen, paying taxes and contributing countless hours of volunteer hours and other services. Making assumptions about others based on their skin color or features may not be out and out discrimination but it can come across as very patronizing.
This video is a little over the top but the opening reminds me of my own foot-in-mouth moment.
The actor is so believable with his clueless reactions. When he compliments the American woman on her impeccable English, asking her where she is from, the woman comes back with, “San Diego, we speak English there.” Priceless! The sarcastic, tongue-in-cheek humor that the actress portrays is classic. Yes, this is a parody, but if you’ve ever had a moment like mine you’ll notice a vein of truth throughout the short video.
Print This Post
