Intercultural Etiquette
Itabari Njeri is sadly on the mark in characterizing Americans as both ignorant and racist in their views. However, it is equally fair and accurate to note that other nations are ethnocentric and racist in their own attitudes toward others. It is not solely an American phenomenon.
Much of our xenophobia can be traced to a failed educational system and the inbred attitude of superiority. This “we are the best while you are quaint or backwards” attitude causes unnecessary friction for Americans around the world. The planet is a rich and diverse place; we are only one land and one people in that diversity.
EDMONDE A HADDAD
Los Angeles
Haddad is a former president of the Los Angeles World Affairs Council and a former deputy assistant secretary of state for public diplomacy.
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