why do people think its SOOOO STRANGE for a white american to be buddhist?

Question

im tired of ppl generalizing that all americans are either christian, catholic, mormon, or atheist!
i was reading this article and i noticed a few remarks the author made about white/english speaking people that are members of the church. notice the last sentence in the 4th paragraph, and the last sentence in the 5th paragraph!
and
http://www.geocities.com/tokyo/island/6653/pdx_obon.htm

Answer 1

It is strange because it is a rebelion against/rejection of white American culture. It makes a statement that the traditional culture and belief system is not where that person is allied, but instead the person has placed themselves in an alternate culture.
Something strange doesn't have to be bad. I see no harm in Buddhism.

Answer 2

I agree with you I found that last sentence insulting.

I am Jewish, and while I might not be fluent in Hebrew that dose not mean that when I pray in Hebrew that I am doing it by faith.

I perfectly know the meanings of the prayers that I am saying and have read them over several times in English. You dont need to be able to translate a prayer as you are saying it for it to have meaning.

Answer 3

Odd. My mom is a white American Buddhist.

Answer 4

seems entirely alright to me . I found much in the Buddhist philosophy for my own as well even though I'm white american and non- theistic.

Answer 5

News to me....Ive never thought it was strange.

Answer 6

I don't think it's soooo strange... now you're generalizing :-)

Answer 7

i don't think its strange at all.....i actually think Buddhism is one of the better religions to follow.

i don't follow it myself though

Answer 8

Buddha was cool.

Answer 9

I don't! I'm Canadian ... we generally accept EVERYBODY for who they really are.
.

.