Letters: Was customs official’s question justified?

Either stupid or essential

In reference to “Outta Line” [On the Spot, Nov. 4]: It is obvious that staff writer Catharine Hamm hasn’t been on Philip Reamon’s side of the fence. There are definitely better ways to ask the question of citizenship.

I have encountered many INS agents, and, sadly, most just go off on a power trip.

If they wanted to know Reamon’s fluency in English to validate his passport, ask him other questions in English, such as “How long have you been away? What countries have you visited?”

Border patrol and INS agents need to be better trained and more civil.

--Richard Ramos, Palos Verdes Estates

Insulting

As an Asian, I would feel insulted by such a question. I would consider it either stupid or an attempt at racial provocation.

--Mohan Nair, Seal Beach

Swelled with feelings of pride

I’ve frequently traveled internationally. I have been asked about my citizenship multiple times, and I am a blond, blue-eyed Nordic/Germanic type and speak Midwestern English.

When I return through customs and am asked such questions, feelings of pride and comfort swell within me. Often, after an officer has (rightfully) interrogated me, he/she has said something similar to “welcome home.”

Perhaps Reamon’s attitude kept the officer from extending similar courtesies.

--John Macdonald, Laguna Niguel