Today....

posted September 27th, 2019 at 11:22 PM

In the line up of a grocery store, an older woman decided to racially attack another woman for being a black immigrant, telling her to get out of Canada, among other things . It took a few seconds for me to realise what was going on . I asked the woman who was on the receiving end of the racist tirade if, what I heard was correct. It was correct, I felt sick. I couldn't stand by and allow this racist to walk away thinking it was ok to treat people this way so, I confronted her, telling her her racist words were disgusting, shameful, nasty and malicious. It didn't make a difference to her mindset, but I wanted her to know there are people in this world who are not afraid to stand up to racists and bigots like herself. I returned to the line up apologising for her behaviour. I grew up in another country as an immigrant from Ireland and we were not liked because we were Irish. I remember at a very young age being called names and my parents defending themselves . Bombers, dirty Mick's, gippos, and pikeys to name just a few. So today really hit a nerve and it stirred up some not so happy memories. I came to Canada several years ago. This is the second country that I've immigrated to . I've made Vancouver my home and I love it here, but today I felt such sadness that here, I personally witnessed such hatred, intolerance, racism and bigotry.

8 Comments

As a caucasian guy

Sep 28, 2019 at 12:37pm

I agree there is too much bigotry,which I've experienced in Richmond and Surrey. Not being served in a store,waiting a long time to be seated and/or served in restaurants, and gone into said places and everyone non caucasian turns to look disapprovingly.
The sickest thing is that media and almost everyone portrays that only whites can be racists...

I'm so

Sep 28, 2019 at 2:57pm

Tired of these Race Issues!
Stupid Ass people we are all the same..
Human....Dammit
People are like the spectrums of colours in a ray of light all beautful, Unique.
It would be rather boring world if we were all exactly the same.
Grow up dumb ass people!
Show Love Not Hate!

You’re my hero

Sep 28, 2019 at 3:00pm

And I think it’s awesome that you confronted this racist trash.
I’ve done likewise a couple of times and people tell me I shouldn’t speak up for my own safety.
I’d rather get into a verbal altercation or even receive a punch than stand by and say nothing.

Sinead

Sep 28, 2019 at 7:13pm

Bravo !
Great job !

T. L. F.

Oct 1, 2019 at 8:20pm

I've always loved the Irish. I love seeing you and hearing your accent. Without saying the details, they've made a huge impact on my life. I empathize with your pain. I hope Vancouver treats you with better experiences, and know that there are many Vancouverites who value the incredible diversity the city offers, including me.

Joey the Lips

Oct 1, 2019 at 11:04pm

The Irish. The blacks of Europe.
Kudos for standing up to the Racist Wagon.

OP

Oct 15, 2019 at 5:32pm

Let's be the louder voice against prejudice. We need good people to do good things, no matter how small. To show compassion and to be kind in such difficult times the world is facing. Your responses and support reinforces why I have made Canada my home.
Go raibh maith agaibh. Thank you in Irish :)