I don't understand the hate directed towards us

[tiggerlover]

There are so many demonstrators and people that hold ALL americans responsible for this war. My family and I no longer feel safe where we are, there is so much hate. For example, DH was driving in Italy today, coming home from a business trip, he was with other men and they were in an official US van (the tags were US Forces), DH said at least 5-6 people in different cars were flipping them off and giving them the horns. Then the group stopped off at a shop and DH was talking to the shop keeper in Italian and ran into some difficulty, so he asked the shop keeper to speak with his friend. When the shop keeper came to the window and saw the tags on their van he told them to go he did not want americans in his shop. Also, a friend of mine, who has US forces plates, has run into difficulty with protesters, it is very scary. I feel very lucky that we paid the extra money when we arrived and that we have Italian plates on our car, this way we blend in some a little better. However, the Italians know we are here and no matter how much we try to blend in, we still stick out, especially with our fair hair and skin. The whole situation is scary to say the least and it is sad that we no longer feel safe, even behind the walls of our own home.

 

[becka]

I am so sorry to hear this.

I lived in Italy for 3 years in the late 80's and Americans were really loved over there. It is sad to hear that the same people who welcomed us so freely are now directing hate towards Americans.

I pray that you and your family stay safe.

 

[DonnaS]

I'm so sorry you are in such a situation. It is much like the Americans here who are judging all French, Germans, etc. by their governments decisions.

Two wrongs don't make a right.

Perhaps some of the people you encounter are fearful of having terrorist attacks aimed at you and they'll be caught in the middle. I don't intend that to excuse it, but perhaps to explain it.

In any case, keep you and yours safe. {{hug}}

 

[Jeff in BigD]

 

[JimB.]

I'd be willing to bet that the people showing you ill will do not remember the days that the Red Brigade was running amuck in Italy.

Next time, ask them if they remember what happeneed to Aldo Moro.................

 

[tiggerlover]

Originally posted by becka
I am so sorry to hear this.

I lived in Italy for 3 years in the late 80's and Americans were really loved over there. It is sad to hear that the same people who welcomed us so freely are now directing hate towards Americans.

I pray that you and your family stay safe.

Becka, this confuses me as well, I lived in Italy for 6 years during the 90's and felt very welcome. I am afraid to go out of my house, I took out the trash this evening and as we sometimes do, DS took his scooter, but after a little while I told DS we had to go in, I just felt very uncomfortable. It is so sad.

Donna, you are right, two wrongs don't make it right. I just wish they would understand this was a governmental decision, I have no power of what they do.

 

[lisajl]

I am so sorry that is happening to your husband and others.

But, there are plenty of Americans that are saying nasty things about France.
I agree with Donna S. Two wrongs don't make a right.

We all need to see that we are on the same planet.

We need to respect others and try to get along.

***Stay safe****

Lisajl

 

[nancy679]

I think it may be how the media portrays things, we all now how powerful they can be.

Just like its portrayed here in the US, it must be different in Italy, as it is probably in France, and everyone wants to think they are right. And most people probably stand by their country.

A lot of the media here is attacking French people and the culture--what that has to do with the French government I just dont understand.

Just a thought.
Hope things get better for you.

 

[Blondie]

They hate us nasty Americans until they need our help.

Stay safe.

 

[caitycaity]

so blondie, are you no longer moving to sweden?

 

[Sonya]

I'm sorry you are going through this, hopefully it will be over soon. Stay safe.