Self-Stereotyping
By definition using stereotypes is judging people because of their difference. When I tell people that I am Congolese they do not believe me because according to them, I don't look Congolese. People say that Congolese have strong facial features which I don't. I have soft features and look like a Fula. Also, the Congolese are famous for their "joyful" sense of style, always wearing extravagant, colorful outfits. If you know me, you know that I'm never wearing any color. My wardrobe is essentially composed of black, grey and white clothes. Then, my first name "Hind" is not a Congolese name, it's actually an Arab name. Congolese people have the funniest first names ever. Anytime you meet someone named Jean-de-Dieu, he's obviously Congolese!
Shalise Barnes, Vancouver, Canada
Image Credit: Genuinewitty
What stereotypes did you hear about your nationality?
All Canadians are super nice, polite, and apologetic. Also, we say 'aboot', 'oot' and 'eh' after every sentence. I even had one guy once ask me if i knew his friend George ... like he legitimately thought that Canada is so small we all know each other.
Are they true?
Some of the accent things are true for people who live in rural parts of Canada, but people from the big cities generally sound more like Americans. We are also not that nice. I for example am a giant bitch. Canada is huge, we don't all play ice hockey and actually our national sport is lacrosse.
If you wanted to say something to people who judged you, what would it be?
I don't think I'd have to say anything because as soon as i opened my mouth they'd realize at least that not all Canadians are nice!
Alexandre, Cassablanca, Morroco
Image Credit: Pixabay/Ben_Kerckx
What stereotypes did you hear about Moroccan?
We ride Camels on a daily basis.
Are they true?
NO!
If you wanted to say something to people who judged you, what would it be?
Go buy an airplane ticket to go to Morocco and see if we ride camels.
Makenna, Nairobi, Kenya
Image Credit: Wikipedia/Ruth Jebet
What stereotypes did you hear about Kenyan?
Corrupt, marriage is based on traditional gifts such as cows and goats. Also, polygamy in marriage is legal for men women polygamy is forbidden. Last and not least, Kenyan are good runners.
Are they true?
Some are true such as corruption, marriage/polygamy. However, all Kenyans being good runners is not true.
If you wanted to say something to people who judged you, what would it be?
I don't care. I love me and that's all that matters.
Kimmi Pelissier, Paris, France
Image Credit: SkecthPort/Riffschievous
What stereotypes did you hear about your nationality?
French people are rude, cold, and always wearing black clothes.
Are they true?
Yes, some of them are actually very true but it depends on people.
If you wanted to say something to the people who judge you, what would it be?
Look at yourself and make sure you are perfect before saying anything about anyone else.
Margarita Valldejuly, Puerto Rico
Image Credit: Pixabay/Kaicho20
What stereotypes did you hear about your nationality?
People say we are super loud when we talk. Also, the matter the event we will always put some reggaeton music on and star dancing while trying to finish a whole bottle of rum as quickly as possible.
Are they true?
Well... They are true but I don't notice it when I'm doing them!
If you wanted to say something to the people who judge you, what would it be?
Judging another for being different is a closed-minded choice. When it comes to stereotypes or cultures, there is two options: you either judge them and create unnecessary tensions or learn from them to expand your knowledge... So where is the logic in choosing the "to-judge" option?
