Have you ever been demeaned because you are speaking your native language?

Question

Have you ever had a difficult time adjusting to speaking your language in public?

Answer 1

If you are an American English is your native language. Any other language is foreign.

Answer 2

I was once reading a book in spanish on the subway. This woman came up to me to ask for directions, but she happened to look down at my book and suddenly started yelling at me (you know how some people think if they speak louder, somehow it makes it more comprehesible.). Then she totally dismissed me because I couldn't possibly help her. Because the only reason anyone could read in another language is because they can't speak english.

She asked the lady next to me, who didn't know the place. I told her, in very precise english, that it was a shame I couldn't understand her, or I would have helped her. Then I walked away and left her to find her own way.

Answer 3

Actually on my behalf ,I am a Mexican/American and I speak
nothing but English and it is the Mexicans whom demeaned
me for not speaking Spanish. I was raised to speak both language ,but I chose to speak English because it was easier.
I understand Spanish, but can hardly speak Spanish.

Answer 4

Not really. When I hang out with other romanian people, we speak romanian, even though we're in Canada. I'm perfectly fluent in english, and don't have an accent, but I like my native tongue as well. Of course, we stick to english if a non-romanian person is part of the group/conversation.

Answer 5

I have been demeaned, but that doesn't stop me from speaking my language @ any time.

Answer 6

Yes. I worked at JCPenney for two years, and people would constantly walk up to me and speak Spanish. I would look at them and say, "I do not understand what you are saying to me." Then they'd start talking in English...

Answer 7

sort of. i grew up as the only white kid in a predominantly mexican area of california and they hated when i spoke english.