I don't like to share my political opinions on the internet but I'm really afraid at the moment. I'm French, however my skin has not the good color and I sense a growing pressure in the eyes of some of my fellow citizens. I don't understand how I could be a danger for them. As someone born in France, I've never felt like this before.
I'm glad I didn't share too much information about myself on the internet, I think I'd feel even worse.
Please don't vote for the far right. 🙏
@adele France is a civil nation based on the rule of law. What exactly are you afraid of? People are concerned about some events, that's why they vote this way. Italy had a "right-wing" majority in the parliament for years, what bad happened? Even their migration laws are still much more liberal than those in the Eastern Europe.
I don't know a lot about the National Rally, so maybe I'm wrong. I just feel that people are concerned too much about different opinions and tend to label everything in a derogatory way, that's bad for democracy and for mutual confidence in society. Anyway, I'm open to arguments.
I personally have experience of being both a majority and a minority in few Eastern European countries, and I partially understand the concerns of both sides.
@causa_arcana Thank you for your response. I appreciate the civil tone and your openness to discussion.
While it's true that France is a nation of laws, the experiences of individuals, especially those from visible minorities, can vary widely. Many people of color in France have reported increased discrimination and hostility, and I personally have felt this pressure growing recently. This isn't about a difference of opinion but about real impacts on everyday life.
@adele So you are concerned about discrimination on a personal level, not on a governmental one? Of course these things are connected — it is difficult to distinguish between a foreigner and a citizen of a foreign descent. Especially in ex colonial metropolis, such as France. But the lack of representation in a parliament for those who are concerned about foreigners won't help in this situation. On the contrary, the representation will make people more confident.
Apart of this, doesn't being a minority have some advantages? Like being more connected with your people. I've met a lot of ethnic groups where I live now — Russians, Armenians, Assyrians, Lebanese, Persians, Indians, Nigerians. Some of them are foreigners, some live here for centuries. I think that they all have something that the majority misses.
Of course, minorities encounter some negative attitude. But I think that it can't be fully abolished. At least now and by political means. It's a part of human nature. However you may take a courage to represent your group in a good way and participate in changing attitudes. Also you may become stronger on this way.
I also understand that being a minority in your own country may be even more sad. I've encountered this a bit, not because of ethnicity, but because of religion. Likewise, it can be beneficial for you if you accept it with courage.
Again, I don't know your situation. I don't want to deny your experience. I just want to uncover what hides behind the slogans and emotional statements which I see often from all sides of the political spectrum. I don't advocate for some political movement in a county very far from me. I just believe that all emotions are justified and conflict may only be avoided through reason and dialogue.
It would be helpful if you explained what kind of discrimination and hostility you experienced so that I know whether I can relate. Some things are not subject for public discussion, so you may DM or email me.
@causa_arcana
Thank you for your detailed response. While I understand your perspective, I do not share your view on the advantages of being a minority or the inevitability of discrimination. My experiences lead me to see these issues very differently. I don't wish to continue this conversation as it touches on personal and sensitive matters. I appreciate your understanding. Take care.