LeaP
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,939
Location: Los Angeles, CA where 405 meets 101
Jun 26, 2014 23:17:22 GMT
|
Post by LeaP on Jun 15, 2016 4:54:48 GMT
Actually Volt, he isn't getting this from TV. It is what a lot of people are talking about here. As BeckyTech so "lovingly" put it, the FUD is real overseas. Most people I talk to hear fear and believe he will ban ALL Muslims. My son heard it at school...a non English speaking school. Who at his school is telling him this? I sure hope it wasn't a teacher, or I'd be sending him to a different school! If it was other kids, I'd have a talk with your son and explain that not all things his peers say are true and educate him on the truth of this misinformation. It is hard to assess what is really going on from abroad. In Canada, a RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) officer told my kid's class to be very careful or avoid visiting the U.S. because they could get shot. Her teacher was convinced that the milk here was filled with additives. From the outside looking in, the U.S. can be daunting. The open carry footage of goofballs with automatic weapons in Starbucks from Texas and Arizona is broadcast worldwide. When we lived in New Zealand during Hurricane Katrina the coverage referred to "unrest". Statistically speaking we are off the charts for gun ownership, homicide and suicide by gun. We are more dangerous than many other countries. I don't blame people for being nervous about visiting, especially when we have a presidential candidate that is talking about banning an entire religion. At best, he is encouraging prejudice, at worst he is inciting violence. That said, I live in a little bubble in Los Angeles. My daughter told the RCMP officer that the only guns she had ever seen growing up here were attached to officers. It is very diverse here and we all get along.
|
|
|
Post by wezee on Jun 15, 2016 5:04:14 GMT
I am really sorry. I can't imagine being on the receiving end of the anti-Muslim rhetoric that has been flying now for years, and that has been intensifying in recent months. I can tell you that my religious institution (which is Jewish) has been posting messages of love for the LGBT community and for our Muslim friends and communities, who we know are dealing with ignorance and intolerance. I can tell you that our local press has featured observant Muslims who have been praying for the victims and for peace. I really hope that the majority of Americans feel that way, and that the people who are making you feel afraid to come here, and who are filling your kids with fear, are a tiny minority that is just REALLY LOUD. In my personal life, that is definitely the case. But the person my son is frightened of most right now is Donald Trump, who is running for President! How do you deal with that? He has nothing to fear. He is saying we need to have a better way to screen immigrants Muslim,Mexican etc. The words of one do not make a country. Just as you are nervous about coming here people here are nervous of you too. I live near Chicago You can not believe how many people fear coming here. We hear all.the.time. about the violence and shootings. Are people right to fear coming to Chicago? NO! If you choose to live your life in fear, they win. Just as Muslims as feared because of actions of the few of those who have hate in their heart, Caucasians, Blacks are feared too. People fear the unknown, Hateful people come in all colors, race and creeds. Come here! Do not judge all of the US because of fear. I would love to meet you and your son! Worship freely! Enjoy your family I'm sure if they thought you were at risk coming here they would never encourage you to visit.
|
|
StephDRebel
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,663
Location: Ohio
Jul 5, 2014 1:53:49 GMT
|
Post by StephDRebel on Jun 15, 2016 5:21:56 GMT
I have a niece who is scared to death of Muslims so I guess it goes both ways. I am sure more Muslims have killed people in the US than non Muslims have killed Muslims in the US, so you will probably be ok. I seriously don't think I've ever been speechless on this board before. I can't even.
|
|
|
Post by Yubon Peatlejuice on Jun 15, 2016 5:36:25 GMT
I've only read the OP. The U.S. really is an asshole of a country and for that, I'm sorry.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 4, 2024 8:10:38 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jun 15, 2016 5:58:24 GMT
I don't know why you all are speechless over Carly's niece's point of view.
It was muslims that killed 2996 the people in the Twin Towers and injured 6000 more. It was muslims that killed over 200 people on a flight that same day and 125 in the pentagon. In the last two days a muslim killed over 50 people in Orlando. The Boston marathon. There was the muslim man in Oklahoma City that beheaded a coworker because she wouldn't convert to Islam.
Like it or not, what is done in the name of any religion is a problem for all in that religion. Perhaps part of the answer for the OP is to educate her son on the atrocities done to non muslims in the name of his religion and how that makes others afraid of his beliefs and what he might do. Fair, no. Life isn't fair. Being devote in ANY religion will have its pitfalls of being hated by somebody. Whether the OP, her son and the empathetic peas like it or not, ISIS is the face of what Islam is for many in the US. Everyone else wants to hide in their own little isolated communities and moan "that isn't who we are" but make no effort to be involved in the wider community.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 4, 2024 8:10:38 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jun 15, 2016 8:21:24 GMT
I don't know why you all are speechless over Carly's niece's point of view. It was muslims that killed 2996 the people in the Twin Towers and injured 6000 more. It was muslims that killed over 200 people on a flight that same day and 125 in the pentagon. In the last two days a muslim killed over 50 people in Orlando. The Boston marathon. There was the muslim man in Oklahoma City that beheaded a coworker because she wouldn't convert to Islam. Like it or not, what is done in the name of any religion is a problem for all in that religion. Perhaps part of the answer for the OP is to educate her son on the atrocities done to non muslims in the name of his religion and how that makes others afraid of his beliefs and what he might do. Fair, no. Life isn't fair. Being devote in ANY religion will have its pitfalls of being hated by somebody. Whether the OP, her son and the empathetic peas like it or not, ISIS is the face of what Islam is for many in the US. Everyone else wants to hide in their own little isolated communities and moan "that isn't who we are" but make no effort to be involved in the wider community. I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture.
|
|
|
Post by Really Red on Jun 15, 2016 10:59:39 GMT
I don't know why you all are speechless over Carly's niece's point of view. It was muslims that killed 2996 the people in the Twin Towers and injured 6000 more. It was muslims that killed over 200 people on a flight that same day and 125 in the pentagon. In the last two days a muslim killed over 50 people in Orlando. The Boston marathon. There was the muslim man in Oklahoma City that beheaded a coworker because she wouldn't convert to Islam. Like it or not, what is done in the name of any religion is a problem for all in that religion. Perhaps part of the answer for the OP is to educate her son on the atrocities done to non muslims in the name of his religion and how that makes others afraid of his beliefs and what he might do. Fair, no. Life isn't fair. Being devote in ANY religion will have its pitfalls of being hated by somebody. Whether the OP, her son and the empathetic peas like it or not, ISIS is the face of what Islam is for many in the US. Everyone else wants to hide in their own little isolated communities and moan "that isn't who we are" but make no effort to be involved in the wider community. I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture. I am on your side because I am also part of a group (United States) who has a scary side to them (Trump and followers). But you can see by your last words that what you are saying about the U.S. is exactly what people say about Muslims, right? All countries and religions have radicals. That is what is reported because it is what is of interest. As you well know, it's not the norm and (usually) more people denounce that radical group than belong to it.
|
|
|
Post by LavenderLayoutLady on Jun 15, 2016 11:08:13 GMT
I just want to offer (((hugs)))
I read your post and I want to say, "You're being silly. Being ridiculous. There's nothing to worry about."
But I can't look you in the eye and say that. And I'm so sorry that that is the case.
To be honest, I think the precautions you have taken, as far as the flight, are good ones. I wish it weren't so. I wish you could speak whatever language you wanted, and have no fear. I wish your son could pray without worrying that some ignoramus assuming he is plotting evil.
But I will say, we are not all bigoted. We are not all filled with hate. There are many, many of us with welcoming arms. But our messages of acceptance do not make as good soundbites on the six o'clock news as messages filled with hate and threats. So those hateful voices seem louder, because they get the mic. But the good ones, we're still here.
I hope you are able to still have a good visit while you are here.
(((hugs)))
|
|
mallie
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,253
Jul 3, 2014 18:13:13 GMT
|
Post by mallie on Jun 15, 2016 11:11:26 GMT
I don't know why you all are speechless over Carly's niece's point of view. It was muslims that killed 2996 the people in the Twin Towers and injured 6000 more. It was muslims that killed over 200 people on a flight that same day and 125 in the pentagon. In the last two days a muslim killed over 50 people in Orlando. The Boston marathon. There was the muslim man in Oklahoma City that beheaded a coworker because she wouldn't convert to Islam. Like it or not, what is done in the name of any religion is a problem for all in that religion. Perhaps part of the answer for the OP is to educate her son on the atrocities done to non muslims in the name of his religion and how that makes others afraid of his beliefs and what he might do. Fair, no. Life isn't fair. Being devote in ANY religion will have its pitfalls of being hated by somebody. Whether the OP, her son and the empathetic peas like it or not, ISIS is the face of what Islam is for many in the US. Everyone else wants to hide in their own little isolated communities and moan "that isn't who we are" but make no effort to be involved in the wider community. I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture. Then ask why your media is choosing to only show Trump as the face of a huge and diverse country.
|
|
|
Post by Merge on Jun 15, 2016 11:39:20 GMT
I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture. Then ask why your media is choosing to only show Trump as the face of a huge and diverse country. I think it's valid that the world is concerned that Trump could be elected leader of the free world, and that there are enough Americans who support his candidacy to make that a real possibility. I am shocked and dismayed every time I read someone here trying to put a spin on his words or claim he wasn't saying what he actually said. And I know someone will be by shortly to say how shocked and dismayed they are that anyone would vote for Hillary or Bernie, blah blah blah, but that's only because you can't actually rationally defend Trump and the things he says, and instead have to resort to "I know you are but what am I" style comebacks. So save it.
|
|
|
Post by mikklynn on Jun 15, 2016 12:08:28 GMT
I'm so sorry people here in the US are causing you and your children concern about visiting your family. My heart is breaking for this country. I hope you have a good visit with no problems. Me, too.
I live in the Minneapolis/St Paul area. We have a large Muslim community. Yes, there are idiots, but please know most of us want everyone to be treated with respect.
I think you are wise to take precautions, but don't let fear keep you from enjoying your trip.
|
|
|
Post by coaliesquirrel on Jun 15, 2016 12:54:25 GMT
I'm sorry for the backlash you (justifiably) fear. Since you specifically mention the plane trip as a source of anxiety, may I make a small suggestion? Don't give other passengers time to hate/fear you -- befriend them first! Even if you're not normally outgoing, force yourself to fake it at least for a few minutes after you board.
Here's why I say that: DH and I flew internationally on our honeymoon exactly 2 weeks after 9/11. A family traveling to Egypt for a funeral was on our flight to London. It was only about 25% full, so they wouldn't have had to speak to us at all if they hadn't wanted to, and they were not dressed in a way that marked them as Muslim. They came to our seats - and we saw them talking to many others scattered around as well - introduced themselves, told us about where/why they were going, asked about our travel plans, etc.
It honestly wouldn't have entered our minds to feel threatened by them, but they very clearly were taking the bull by the horns to make clear to fellow passengers that they were just like us - just trying to get somewhere else. Should you HAVE to do what they did? Obviously not. However, it sounds like it may allay some of your anxiety about the trip, as well as free you up in terms of not having to watch what you say, etc. No need to even mention your religion if you don't want to - just talk about what you're going to do on your visit, who you'll see, etc. And I'm certainly not advocating being the seatmate who won't shut up - just getting a bit acquainted as PEOPLE so they have something other than a stereotype to see you through.
I'm a total introvert, so I know it might be tough to strike up such a conversation; however, I really think that if you speak to people warmly, most at least will respond favorably. Giving into your likely instinct from your anxiety of retreating into yourself or trying not to be noticed, by contrast, may lead people to think either you've got something to hide or that you're so passive as to be an easy target for bullying. If you make some friends amongst other passengers, even if you encounter some asshole bully, you'll have some allies as well to back you up!
|
|
marimoose
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,282
Jul 22, 2014 2:10:14 GMT
|
Post by marimoose on Jun 15, 2016 12:58:59 GMT
I'm so sorry that things have gotten so bad that you have to feel that way. We were a country that was formed by immigrants to give its citizens religious freedom, somewhere we have forgotten that. ^^^^^^^^ ^^^^^^^
|
|
|
Post by BeckyTech on Jun 15, 2016 15:07:21 GMT
I have told my son to not pray while we are there. He wanted to visit the mosque where we used to live but I have told him it is not a good idea right now. I was wondering about this statement. Why couldn't your son pray here? I've never seen Muslims praying in public here. Or Christians, for that matter, unless it was a candlelight vigil or some other type of occasion like that. I assume that like the rest of us, you pray in your homes or houses of worship. So why wouldn't he be able to pray while he is here? Why wouldn't he be able to attend a mosque?
|
|
|
Post by ktdoesntscrap on Jun 15, 2016 15:13:45 GMT
I can imagine, I am so sorry. I think you are taking proper precautions. I did have a friend flying from the UK to the US, her husband and one son have muslim sounding names. They were detained and missed their flight, the mother and the two other children with British sounding names had no problems.
They were detained by an American airline. They are both school teachers at a prestigious British school. There was nothing other than the names that would call attention for them to be detained.
I hope you have a good safe flight and an incident free visit.
|
|
|
Post by ktdoesntscrap on Jun 15, 2016 15:22:23 GMT
Then ask why your media is choosing to only show Trump as the face of a huge and diverse country. I think it's valid that the world is concerned that Trump could be elected leader of the free world, and that there are enough Americans who support his candidacy to make that a real possibility. I am shocked and dismayed every time I read someone here trying to put a spin on his words or claim he wasn't saying what he actually said. And I know someone will be by shortly to say how shocked and dismayed they are that anyone would vote for Hillary or Bernie, blah blah blah, but that's only because you can't actually rationally defend Trump and the things he says, and instead have to resort to "I know you are but what am I" style comebacks. So save it.
|
|
|
Post by Woobster on Jun 15, 2016 15:34:46 GMT
Your fears are understood, but please try to remember that the majority of the people in the U.S. are kind, welcoming, everyday people who are just trying to live the lives they enjoy. I hope you come visit us, and I hope you have a lovely time. Sincerely.
|
|
~Lauren~
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,876
Jun 26, 2014 3:33:18 GMT
|
Post by ~Lauren~ on Jun 15, 2016 15:52:27 GMT
In a way I understand your concern. I am on the opposite end of the spectrum from you; my husband has relatives in Tel Aviv who keep asking us to visit and I won't go because I'm afraid of Palestinian and Muslim terrorists
Muslim extremists have made it very difficult for all peaceful people
|
|
|
Post by ExpatBackHome on Jun 15, 2016 15:52:27 GMT
I am so sorry you feel this way. That has to be an awful feeling. I'm not sure what I would do in your situation.
|
|
|
Post by cade387 on Jun 15, 2016 16:38:32 GMT
I have told my son to not pray while we are there. He wanted to visit the mosque where we used to live but I have told him it is not a good idea right now. I was wondering about this statement. Why couldn't your son pray here? I've never seen Muslims praying in public here. Or Christians, for that matter, unless it was a candlelight vigil or some other type of occasion like that. I assume that like the rest of us, you pray in your homes or houses of worship. So why wouldn't he be able to pray while he is here? Why wouldn't he be able to attend a mosque? I don't want to speak for the OP, but I would expect because it is certain times of day that they pray. It doesn't matter where they are. My coworkers pray at their desks because they can't leave to go to a mosque several times a day.
I was traveling at the airport and several men pulled out small carpets (I'm not sure of the official term used for this) and began to pray right on the floor in the airport. You are where you are when it is time to pray.
It isn't like Catholics where there is a service you attend at a particular time or a particular place.
OP - if I have misspoke in your case, I apologize. I'm only speaking of knowledge from my friends, coworkers and what I have seen in the past.
|
|
|
Post by cade387 on Jun 15, 2016 16:40:38 GMT
I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture. Then ask why your media is choosing to only show Trump as the face of a huge and diverse country.
Having just been over in Europe - I wouldn't say that Trump is the only thing they show by a long shot, but it is the only thing that comes across as scary to most Europeans (for example).
|
|
|
Post by KiwiJo on Jun 15, 2016 16:44:06 GMT
I think it's valid that the world is concerned that Trump could be elected leader of the free world, and that there are enough Americans who support his candidacy to make that a real possibility. Jeepers - what have I missed? i thought that Trump could be elected leader of USA - but you're telling me he might be my leader too? And leader of all the other countries that value freedom?
|
|
|
Post by Merge on Jun 15, 2016 16:48:23 GMT
I think it's valid that the world is concerned that Trump could be elected leader of the free world, and that there are enough Americans who support his candidacy to make that a real possibility. Jeepers - what have I missed? i thought that Trump could be elected leader of USA - but you're telling me he might be my leader too? And leader of all the other countries that value freedom? The US president is often referred to as the leader of the free world because of the position the US holds as the military superpower, largest economy, etc. among free nations. But obviously no, he or she is not your elected leader. It's probably an outdated and overly US-centric term, but the reality does explain why people in other countries are concerned about the outcome of this election. Due to various treaties and economic relationships between the US and lots of other countries, our president's decisions can affect people all over the world.
|
|
|
Post by ilikepink on Jun 15, 2016 17:05:36 GMT
OP, I'm sorry. I'm sorry that circumstances are making you and your family fearful. I'm sorry that such a loud mouth seems to be talking for this country, when what he says is not what everyone feels. I'm sorry that the country I was raised in and taught that freedom of speech and religion were the cornerstone of why this country was founded seems to be ignoring what that really means. I'm sorry that there are crazy people out there doing things that give your religion a bad name. I'm sorry that the reputation of my country around the world is that of a bully. I'm just sorry.
What I understand of right and wrong, good and evil, love and hate is that it takes a lot more right, good and love to overcome the wrong, evil and hate. It's going to take all the good people in the world to live right and love to crowd out the evil and the hate. Please do come to our country, if only to help spread the good in the world.
I completely understand your fears, and hope that your goodness, kindness and love will crowd out the fear.
|
|
AmeliaBloomer
Drama Llama
Posts: 6,842
Location: USA
Jun 26, 2014 5:01:45 GMT
|
Post by AmeliaBloomer on Jun 15, 2016 17:06:31 GMT
Trump really has nothing to do with every day life in America. Nothing. But as others have said, he's the presumptive Republican candidate, his ideas about limiting Muslim travel to the U.S. have surprisingly high support among Republicans, and he gets a ton of press both here and abroad. I totally understand why children would think he is emblematic of American thinking...which would trickle down to every day life. I have many students - both Latino and Muslim - who are afraid of Trump. Just like I've had white students who genuinely think that Praisent Obama is the bogeyman. They parrot what they hear at home; often, in the process, things get misunderstood and exaggerated. They're kids. (And on this very board, we know adults who fear Mr. Obama for all kinds of nonsensical reasons, including planning martial law. Fear begets fear.) The OP is an American and a veteran who's afraid to travel to her own country and afraid to be overheard speaking one of her languages. I think we need to take some collective ownership for that.
|
|
|
Post by lurkingsince2001 on Jun 15, 2016 18:07:55 GMT
I make it a practice to not go places I don't feel comfortable or feel like I don't "belong." There are places I won't go because something makes me feel more like a target. It could be my race, my beliefs, my economic class, my citizenship, a large police presence implying increased security, or being alone at the time. Some people would say it's letting fear rule my life but it's kept me safe so far.
When I have had to go to visit or live in such places, I've kept my head down and drawn as little attention as possible to myself or my family. In MHOP, you should be aware of your surroundings no matter who you are or where you are. Little things go wrong and bad things happen here and there all the time, often regardless of one's religion or race. I don't know the statistics but you are probably more likely to get in a car accident or have a medical emergency than to be singled out for your religion(not that I'm wishing any of that on you but pointing out you might want to prepare for those possibilities as well).
As for the plane issue: I see on the news all the time about people getting in trouble on flights for reasons that have nothing to do with looking Muslim. Some attendants are just power-mad and some passengers are just douches. If you are obvious about your beliefs, you will get likely get looks. That's just a fact of life, especially on a plane since 9/11, so it can't be news to you. Just behave however you have before and hope you get nice staff and no douchey passengers just like the rest of us do when we fly. I get a panic attack just flying with kids because of all the times you hear of families getting removed from flights.
Your defensive response to the suggestions that you enlighten your kids as to why they might have issues was to ask, somewhat disbelievingly I thought, if that meant we should teach why blacks hate whites because of slavery. What makes you think we don't? Certainly the issue is far more complex than that though. My kids are well aware of the actions taken by and against Caucasians throughout history, perhaps even more than age appropriate. Children of any race, religions, socio-economic group, whatever, should know why they may encounter difficulties, prejudice, hatred, be blamed for things they had nothing to do with. It's not fair or right, but forewarned is forearmed. Parents who let their children think the world is out to get them with no frame of reference aren't doing the kid any favors.
You said that you feel safer in a known terrorist region. I'm insulted by that, but I can also appreciate better the devil you know than the one you don't. So why come back here? Skype or have select family come to you. I don't remember reading that you were coming for a specific event so put it off until you will feel safer. That time may never come. Future restrictions on your travel doesn't really seem likely to me, no matter what candidates say. I think if that was going to happen it would've been after 9/11 when they were gung-ho to strip everyone's rights.
If I've read this right, you are a U.S. citizen and former military, so you should know how the politics, rhetoric, and news coverage work. The internet is a global thing so you know you can look further than whatever propaganda or misinformation might be coming from your local news. Frankly it's all a mess here and many of us are scared for our own reasons. And we all get to live with the consequences of the actions others have taken against us or to protect us.
|
|
mallie
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,253
Jul 3, 2014 18:13:13 GMT
|
Post by mallie on Jun 15, 2016 18:28:18 GMT
I guess white parents should educate their children why black people hate them because slavery and all. Because the white people did it, right? See how freaking ridiculous that sounds? First off, my son is well aware of who ISIS (daesch in Arabic) is as they have killed more Muslims than non-Muslims. He is aware because there are special patrols here at embassies and malls that are nicknamed "daesch patrols". We go through checkpoints often so we are quite familiar with ISIS. And we make sure to teach him THAT is not Islam that they practice or kill for. ISIS is an extremist perversion of Islam. The world does not care when ISIS kills/bombs/rapes Muslims. That's not subjective, that's a fact. ISIS is a direct result of the US invasion of Iraq. I have a hard time understanding why all Muslims are held responsible for the acts of these putrid animals. Why aren't white male gun owners looked at with the same fear because that is the description of the majority of mass shooters? And as for the face of America, Trump is what is coming through loud and clear to this part of the world. Does not paint a pretty picture. I am on your side because I am also part of a group (United States) who has a scary side to them (Trump and followers). But you can see by your last words that what you are saying about the U.S. is exactly what people say about Muslims, right? All countries and religions have radicals. That is what is reported because it is what is of interest. As you well know, it's not the norm and (usually) more people denounce that radical group than belong to it. Exactly. Ken Burns recent speech at Stanford eloquently and passionately points out what is wrong with the media in this country (and probably everywhere else). Good journalism has given way to "If it bleeds, it leads" on every level. Bleeding = ratings = More Stories about Bleeding. If I judged a country or people or organization, etc solely by what the media reported, I'd end up living in a bunker. As creatures having won the genetic lottery of being given logic and curiosity, it is on us to look at the media with a jaundiced and critical eye and avoid making generalizations or decisions based solely on what the media is telling me. Caveat emptor.
|
|
freebird
Drama Llama
'cause I'm free as a bird now
Posts: 6,927
Jun 25, 2014 20:06:48 GMT
|
Post by freebird on Jun 15, 2016 18:33:00 GMT
This is what the US Government says about traveling to Morocco, but people still go.
You're only hearing what the media wants you to hear. Remember that.
"The potential for terrorist violence against U.S. interests and citizens exists in Morocco. Moroccan authorities continue to disrupt groups seeking to attack U.S. or Western-affiliated and Moroccan government targets, arresting numerous individuals associated with international terrorist groups. With indications that such groups still seek to carry out attacks in Morocco, it is important for U.S. citizens to be keenly aware of their surroundings and adhere to prudent security practices such as avoiding predictable travel patterns and maintaining a low profile.
Establishments that are identifiable with the United States are potential targets for attacks. These may include facilities where U.S. citizens and other foreigners congregate, including clubs, restaurants, places of worship, schools, hotels, movie theaters, U.S. brand establishments, and other public areas. Such targets may also include establishments where activities that may offend religious sensitivities occur, such as casinos or places where alcoholic beverages are sold or consumed.
All U.S. citizens are urged to remain alert to local security developments and be vigilant regarding their personal security and report any suspicious incidents or problems immediately to Moroccan authorities and the U.S. Consulate in Casablanca.
Demonstrations occur frequently in Morocco and are typically focused on political or social issues. During periods of heightened regional tension, large demonstrations may take place in the major cities. By law, all demonstrations require a government permit, but spontaneous unauthorized demonstrations, which have greater potential for violence, can occur. In addition, different unions or groups may organize strikes to protest an emerging issue or government policy. Travelers should be aware of the current levels of tension in Morocco and stay informed of regional issues that could resonate in Morocco and create an anti-American response. Avoid demonstrations if at all possible. If caught in a demonstration, remain calm and move away immediately when provided the opportunity.
The Western Sahara is an area where the legal status of the territory and the issue of its sovereignty remain unresolved. The area was long the site of armed conflict between Moroccan government forces and the POLISARIO Front, which continues to seek independence for the territory. However, a cease-fire has been fully in effect since 1991 in the UN-administered area. There are thousands of unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western Saharan border. Exploding mines are occasionally reported, and they have caused death and injury. There have been sporadic reports of violence in the cities of Laayoune and Dakhla stemming from sporting events and from political demonstrations. Morocco claims sovereignty over the Western Sahara and closely monitors and controls access to the territory. There have been instances in which U.S. citizens suspected of being participants in political protests or of supporting NGOs that are critical of Moroccan policies have been expelled from, or not been allowed to enter, the Western Sahara. "
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 4, 2024 8:10:38 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jun 15, 2016 18:49:24 GMT
Trump really has nothing to do with every day life in America. Nothing. I disagree. The fact that even with his hate speech, he has garnered enough votes to be the presumptive Republican nominee has a lot to do with everyday life in America.
|
|
Deleted
Posts: 0
May 4, 2024 8:10:38 GMT
|
Post by Deleted on Jun 15, 2016 18:57:33 GMT
I don't know why you all are speechless over Carly's niece's point of view. It was muslims that killed 2996 the people in the Twin Towers and injured 6000 more. It was muslims that killed over 200 people on a flight that same day and 125 in the pentagon. In the last two days a muslim killed over 50 people in Orlando. The Boston marathon. There was the muslim man in Oklahoma City that beheaded a coworker because she wouldn't convert to Islam. Like it or not, what is done in the name of any religion is a problem for all in that religion. Perhaps part of the answer for the OP is to educate her son on the atrocities done to non muslims in the name of his religion and how that makes others afraid of his beliefs and what he might do. Fair, no. Life isn't fair. Being devote in ANY religion will have its pitfalls of being hated by somebody. Whether the OP, her son and the empathetic peas like it or not, ISIS is the face of what Islam is for many in the US. Everyone else wants to hide in their own little isolated communities and moan "that isn't who we are" but make no effort to be involved in the wider community. Going with this standard, I hope Christians or Jews will remember this the next time they are upset that people are associating them with their worst radical branches. I wish more people could see how ridiculous it is to tell the OP not to judge America or everyday life in America by all the media coverage of Trump while so many are perfectly willing to judge all Muslims by the actions and media coverage of a few. To tell a Muslim that like it or not, ISIS is the face of Islam/your religion while jumping on her b/c her CHILD sees Trump as the face of America right now is downright mean at worst and shows some hypocrisy at best. I get that the hypocrisy might be unintentional, and that we're all (myself included) guilty of it at times but damn. So many Americans get so defensive at the least bit of criticism of our country or society as a whole and it's silly. Why can't we all just show a bit more empathy to each other?
|
|