aman
20 Aug 2010
Life / My own thoughts about life in Poland (have lived here for two years) [133]
I don't agree with the most things said here. I will only comment on what I mostly agree with: racism and homophobia.
I am a guy of Asian origin (doesn't matter what part of Asia) who lived in Asia and the U.S. (third of my life) prior to coming to Poland.
I have to say I've never been aware of my 'Asianness' prior to coming to Poland. In Asia it's normal, but also in the States I've never considered myself Asian, just another American guy. I could never and still don't understand ethnic pride.
But I've been reminded of my 'Asiannes' and of my oriental looks so many times, that quite frankly I am getting pretty sick of it, especially since I consider myself a true cosmopolitan.
Homophobia of course is a huge problem. I see totally educated, young and smart people making the most stupid remarks about homosexuals. It's almost like 19th century.
Now having said that, I would not say that Poland is the most racist or homophobic country I've been to (Russia and United Arab Emirates are). I also do think that Poland is a lot more liberal than it used to be and is constantly improving. I do think that Krakow (the city where I live) has a great future. I love Poland and my girlfriend is of Polish origin, albeit she grew up in another country.
I don't agree with the most things said here. I will only comment on what I mostly agree with: racism and homophobia.
I am a guy of Asian origin (doesn't matter what part of Asia) who lived in Asia and the U.S. (third of my life) prior to coming to Poland.
I have to say I've never been aware of my 'Asianness' prior to coming to Poland. In Asia it's normal, but also in the States I've never considered myself Asian, just another American guy. I could never and still don't understand ethnic pride.
But I've been reminded of my 'Asiannes' and of my oriental looks so many times, that quite frankly I am getting pretty sick of it, especially since I consider myself a true cosmopolitan.
Homophobia of course is a huge problem. I see totally educated, young and smart people making the most stupid remarks about homosexuals. It's almost like 19th century.
Now having said that, I would not say that Poland is the most racist or homophobic country I've been to (Russia and United Arab Emirates are). I also do think that Poland is a lot more liberal than it used to be and is constantly improving. I do think that Krakow (the city where I live) has a great future. I love Poland and my girlfriend is of Polish origin, albeit she grew up in another country.