Discussion of the Day
What will you do if you are in my shoes?
Ramon ANov 19, 22
My name is ***. I am from the country termed "the giant of Africa". Hope you know the country? Guess you know. Just relocated to Canada, and been a black and a visible minority, how will I blend with the norms in Canada. I need your advice.
Comments
  • Pauline S/NZ
    Just be a good human
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    • Irene L 837313
      Canadians have a great reputation as friendly and welcoming. Just don’t walk around thinking that you are disadvantaged. Be open to new experiences and new friends. Don’t be conscious that you are black or a minority. You’d be surprised how oblivious people actually are to that. Good luck to your future in your new country.
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      • kelsey s 1112509
        you will do just fine, canada has many different cultures.
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        • misfortune8
          As an Australian, I have a very high opinion of Canadians, but I've never been there. Canada embraces multiple cultures, so don't change yourself to blend in. I wish you well, Ramon A!
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          • ellabella
            Be yourself and try to contribute to the community in a positive way.
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            • boy blunder
              be yourself,,,,,,,let the world adjust to you my friend
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              • Priscilla R 316016
                Smile a lot. Canadians are very friendly and remember they are just as worried as you about walking in your shoes. I wish you much success and enjoyment in your new life.
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                • Jania S
                  Be yourself, and live in an area close to what you are used to. Being honest and smile, also ask questions. I hope you are in a rural area, people seem to be a lot more friendly as they are not rushed like in the city. I havent been in Canada for decades so I cant talk for canada, and if you pray, keep it up. Blessings
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                  • IdentifyAs
                    Embrace the law and traditions of your country. Smile and be friendly.
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                    • Anneliese
                      Be yourself. Be kind, courteous and I find it's best when going to any country to make a little effort to learn the language, culture and traditions. People notice, even if you may not know everything if there's a willingness to learn or try, it can go a long way. Don't be afraid to say you don't know something either, I find quite often people are helpful.
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                      • Martin R 125460
                        be quiet and follow instruction or traditions of your new country
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                        • Paula J 395266
                          I have no idea. Are you aware of the norms of Canada and do you want to blend in? I would suggest if you don't know the history of the country try to learn a bit because that always helps, then the festivals or celebrations. What about their hero's and villains? I have visited Quebec and found they did not speak English, that is until my outspoken 5 year old spotted a Lions Club badge and told the man wearing it that his grandfather in Australia was a Lion. "oh" said the man "you're not English" in perfect English, so watch your accent if you are in the French speaking section. Otherwise they are pretty layback so enjoy yourself. One thing I wasn't aware of but felt pretty silly when I asked where I could see a Mounty the policeman wearing an ordinary policeman's uniform told me that is the Summer uniform and in Winter they look like ordinary police.
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                          • Katzeye
                            Of all the places in the world Canada has always been on my bucket list because it reminds me so much of my own country New Zealand with it's beautiful natural scenery and where most people are laid back and will accept you for just who you are not the colour of your skin plus they are very friendly,welcoming people,one of my good friends lives in Canada and he loves it over there,always telling me to come visit.I wish you all the best with your new life and amazing journey in Canada Ramon.
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                            • Greg B 520364
                              Enjoy yourself it's better than you think. once people get to know you they don't see colour
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                              • Carolina Z
                                YOU ARE NOT ALONE, THERE ARE MANY WHO THINK THAT BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL , JUST BE YOURSELF TO PROVE IT.
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                                • Tania M 407761
                                  Do something new and different in music and make a name for yourself.
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                                  • Catalina
                                    Dear Ramon, do not try hard to blend...there will be always something you’ll learn, it takes time to feel at home in your new home. All the best to you! Canada is the right place for you.
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                                    • Victoria 315341
                                      We are all human beings and have a right to a good life, I endeavour to treat all people with respect. Friendly, and just myself. Good luck !
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                                      • Rebecca B 614374
                                        Just be you, be polite and honest, and you are sure to find friends soon enough. Most people are quite happy to accept others as they are. Any that do not are the ones with the problem, not you.
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                                        • Glenys H 310155
                                          just be yourself, and you will find like minded people
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                                          • yvonne l 1107206
                                            justbeyourself
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                                            • Jenny L 591463
                                              I love Canada, have family and friends there and I have lived there before. Went to school there for a year. So my advice to you is be your self, be kind and every thing will work out fine. Canadians are generally very friendly and easy to get on with. Enjoy the country side because it is beautiful and have a good life there.
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                                              • Libby T
                                                That's odd. Only me in my shoes.
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                                                • PETER M 134659
                                                  Just be yourself. Don't conform. Let people accept you for what you are. Racist people are nobodies.
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                                                  • Angela F 981920
                                                    Just be you. People prefer honesty and don't like a second rate someone you're not.
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                                                    • MARGARET p 388156
                                                      Don't be rude and learn the customs
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                                                      • Paul J 94868
                                                        I would try blending in with everyone other than just Norms...
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                                                        • Alabimmer
                                                          Stay upbeat and friendly and learn the customs.
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                                                          • Sonya F 68771
                                                            Canada has nice people just be yourself and dont be rude
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                                                            • CourtneyM1993
                                                              Just be yourself, people in Canada are friendly, I have many friends who come from different countries / cultures , I'm sure they will understand and welcome you with open arms
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                                                              • Dave P 857147
                                                                I live in Aus and have many friends of color and they are generally well respected here because of their work ethic and friendliness
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                                                                • Merci
                                                                  Ramon, NZ is truly a multicultural society and I was privileged to have all nationalities as my clients over the last 20 years of my working life. I found that by smiling lots and encouraging gestures overcame any difficulties with blending. Just think, if we were all sightless we wouldn't be able to differentiate but would still seek other people as colleagues, friends and family. I am sure you will be warmly welcomed in Canada for your own personality and skills.
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                                                                  • Renee C 1104314
                                                                    Utilize the internet for help. You can use social media, search for different hobbies you enjoy, or even support from different groups. It can be a good place to start, and also help you make friendships.
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                                                                    • Bugalugs
                                                                      Stay in Canada, don't waste your time going down to the US - possibly the Most Racist, Most Discriminatory country in the world unless you are super rich - the only standard by which the Americans judge everything and everybody. If you are rich there all doors will open to you, if not then you may as well not exist. Voting in the USA is supposed to be open to all US Citizens but various States and many, many Republican (Trump Conservatives) do not think, and actively work against, some Citizens should not have the Right to Vote - shades of Hitler and his Nazi Party which not only denied some citizens the Right to Vote but also cancelled their citizenship and then murdered millions of them. Don't think it could not happen in the USA because those who would deny any US citizens the Right to Vote are laying the ground to do exactly what Hitler did.
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                                                                      • Karen C 817526
                                                                        Just be yourself
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                                                                        • Sheree T
                                                                          Be yourself Ramon, be polite, say hello to people and smile.
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                                                                          • kristian s 513441
                                                                            I would try to know the culture and the country itself first before moving to a country that I don't know anything about.
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                                                                            • Igor A
                                                                              You will only blend if you work hard and also desirably smart to prove that you are an asset to the country and your employer. Otherwise you will just be thinking that anyone else lives better off than you do and everybody else is a racist there and vote for the Democrats.
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                                                                              • cel b
                                                                                Just be yourself and say hello
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                                                                                • Mopos
                                                                                  Ramon, as stated in comments many times, be yourself. We have visited Canada for a holiday and to see family quite few times. Canada is a beautiful (huge) country, we found Canadians welcoming warm and in many different ways helpful. I am stating the obvious but all countries have problems in one way or another. I wish you the best of luck!
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                                                                                  • View all 6 replies
                                                                                  • Lyn 78550
                                                                                    Well said Mopos. This is one country that I really want to visit.
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                                                                                  • MoposLyn 78550
                                                                                    Vancouver is one of my favourite cities, other Provinces (states) are tipitytop too! You and "another friend" must win the lottery as we know! :)
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                                                                                  • Lyn 78550Mopos
                                                                                    Yes, I do know Mopos. Saturday today and I shall be on this site and hear you shout from where I am when I inform you. lol. Love tipitytop another for my list.
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                                                                                  • MoposLyn 78550
                                                                                    I'll hear you. Ok, I think I might start charging $ you for "sayings" LOL!
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                                                                                  • MoposMopos
                                                                                    PS, dry here in the suburbs, not in some country areas a few hundred Ks away, it's heart wrenching.......:(
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                                                                                  • Lyn 78550Mopos
                                                                                    Yes, I have been following the weather and knew you were in the suburbs however the country areas are indeed 'heart wrenching'.
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                                                                                • Barbara H 1073102
                                                                                  I believe Canadians are open minded about race. Just be confident in yourself. Think about how a Caucasian person in Africa would be looked at until they are known better and act accordingly. Don't assume every action is against you due to your race.
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                                                                                  • June C 463374
                                                                                    You’ve made the first move here by acknowledging this as a problem. Just be yourself and you will find people will accept you as you are. Make sure you talk to people when they speak to you and be interested in them.
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                                                                                    • JANN R
                                                                                      JUST DONE YOUR BEST AND YOU WILL GET ON FINE ACCEPT THERE RULES AND YOU WONT HAVE ANY PROBLEMS
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                                                                                      • Sandra C 12043
                                                                                        Just be yourself. Treat people the way you would like to be treated. You won't get on with every person you meet, so pick your friends wisely. From whatr I hear Canadians are lovely people, with a great mix of cultures there.
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                                                                                        • Arthur
                                                                                          Canada is a multicultural country, its people are one of the nicest on the planet, to fit in in any place you need to embrace the culture of that place without losing who you are, imagine the dilemma of a Chinese person who wants to fit in the giant of Africa without trying o embrace and understand the culture there
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                                                                                          • Luv ur
                                                                                            At the end of the day, you don't have to alter yourself to fit in. Be who you are. I'm sure your a great man, because you thought to ask this question instead of being conceded about it. You can only be yourself, and that is plenty good enough. People will come around as they see how awesome you are. If they don't, they aren't who you want to be associated with anyway. Good luck. You will be fine!!.
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                                                                                            • JANN R
                                                                                              I AGREE WITH YOU CANDY
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                                                                                            • Luv urJANN R
                                                                                              Thank you, but it's the truth. He sounds like a wonderful guy and humble about making a positive transition. I'd give anything to have a friend like that.
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                                                                                          • Lyn A.
                                                                                            Do what you do, do well. Be friendly/compassionate realise that some will never accept you for who/what you are, make the most of those that are accepting-good luck
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                                                                                            • nancy b 1002224
                                                                                              Welcome! Great choice...just be yourself and be patient!
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                                                                                              • The dog house
                                                                                                I believe Canada is a better choice than the USA. Work hard and live a better life. If you want you can study. It will be fine. Life has its challenges for all of us. Wish you well Ramon
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                                                                                                • Luv ur
                                                                                                  I don't know Canada, but where I live I'm a white minority. Americans, the ones I know, are very accepting of all diverse people.
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                                                                                              • Elizabeth J 447888
                                                                                                I think you made a good choice Ramon, or did you have a choice. From what I have read Canada has a wonderful track record in making immigrants feel welcome. They have put in place a number of iniatives such as monthly markets where sharing of culture is encouraged. Just by reading your post it is obvious that you really want it to work, therefore it shall. All the best Ramon and please drop a post every now and again to let us know things are going.
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                                                                                                • Lady Flamingo
                                                                                                  My advice is just be yourself!
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                                                                                                  • Karen S 841350
                                                                                                    Ramon, like many have already said. Be yourself, and be true in your spirit. Diversity and being different is special and being unique is a gift. T
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                                                                                                    • Dawn B 1104751
                                                                                                      Blend to the norms where you feel comfortable and show yourself when you’re feeling comfortable.
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                                                                                                      • writerrochelle
                                                                                                        You've already received a lot of good advice so, all I can add is, if you are a spiritual person, pray for patience and guidance, and let God help you do the rest. He has never let me down, under any circumstances. ;-D
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                                                                                                        • Tupulua S
                                                                                                          We have a song that we sing in our language, it simply translate like this "I came,I have seen,I I will do as they do", Oh, do not do as we tell you.
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                                                                                                          • William P 589978
                                                                                                            I have never been in a situation remotely similar, so I cannot advise, but I wish you well.
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                                                                                                            • Daniel T 626103
                                                                                                              Don't try to blend in, be yourself, just keep in mind that it can take a long time to make strong connections and friendships, but be patient, also join some groups like Churches, Sports, or whatever you are into.
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                                                                                                              • Christina C 466456
                                                                                                                Explore a bit, join some hobby or activity clubs (like chess or hiking for example or whatever interests you) perhaps, or just generally aim to enjoy yourself. Experience what your local vicinity has to offer and see the main attractions. If you know absolutely no one, you could ask work colleagues or neighbours (that you trust) what they think are the best activities in that area and if they know any great places to socialise. This will help you to familiarise with your new home and feel more comfortable.
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                                                                                                                • Angie
                                                                                                                  Just be yourself. Embrace your new culture. Join a sports club, arts or amateur dramatics group, or any activity you’re interested in. Check out your local library or online, notice boards etc for ideas on what’s going on in your community. Have fun!
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                                                                                                                  • gloria N 666866
                                                                                                                    Volunteer in your community, there are so many ways you can help. Try Food Banks Canada is a charitable organization representing the food bank community across Canada. Founded in 1987, Food Banks Canada’s network is made up of 10 Provincial Associations and over 500 local food banks.
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                                                                                                                    • Cher
                                                                                                                      Be friendly, surround yourself with nice people, work hard, volunteering for good causes, ask for help and be honest and happy as much as you can. Best wishes. Welcome to Canada. Share your experiences!
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                                                                                                                      • Tina 423889
                                                                                                                        Good luck, I would worry more about the cold!
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                                                                                                                        • Melinda B 311794
                                                                                                                          I think relocation depends on lots of things. I don't know your situation, but I also wish you luck in all your endeavours in your new country.
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                                                                                                                          • Paul B 522937
                                                                                                                            Sorry can’t help you
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                                                                                                                            • BLACK LIVES MATTER
                                                                                                                              I have never relocated from one country (Nigeria) to another country (Canada) on a permanent basis. I cannot offer you any practical advice on blending in with norms in Canada. However, 'Je Croise Les Doigits', on your future endeavors in Canada on a personal level and business level!
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                                                                                                                              • Liane H
                                                                                                                                I have had some canadian friends here in Australia, they are very open minded and friendly.. Just be yourself .As long as you are honest that will ALWAYS shine through,and any stereotypes that come with some of your country men ;) will be not judged onto you ! One day hopefully you can stand proud of your heritage as you should be okay,all the best .
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                                                                                                                                • APB
                                                                                                                                  Hi Ramon...I have no idea where you have come from...but relocating in Canada is a pretty good place to be my friend...I've worked in countries where I have started again...just engage with people...be happy...they will love you and it will be all OK
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                                                                                                                                  • Linda C
                                                                                                                                    Unfortunately there are people out there who will pick on everyone whatever colour, race, religion, age or gender. Don't think everyone is out to get you for a start. Most people are inclusive. I find Canadians lovely.
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                                                                                                                                    • Rhonda D 522615
                                                                                                                                      Canadians are known to be very welcoming. Just put yourself out there. You will be fine.
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                                                                                                                                      • Julie K 348980
                                                                                                                                        That is a question which is outside my realm of comprehension as I see a person and not a skin colour.
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