Hello all! I posted a little but ago that I will be visiting Dublin for 2 weeks. In fact, there are about 15 of us going, and of the 15, 9 of us are black. I was in Dublin for a layover last month enroute to Spain and didn't at all sense any racism in the least bit, but needless to say, we stood out... A LOT. I don't expect anything negative, and I am not quick to pull the race card just because someone doesn't hold a door open for me, but I was wondering if anyone has any experiences in Dublin that can help boost our confidence that even though we will look very different, we won't be treated different. Thanks! :)
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9369 posts
I'm not black, but I can tell you that you will see all nationalities in Dublin. They have immigrants (and other tourists) from all over. In addition, I can tell you that you will never meet warmer, friendlier people than the Irish. Relax and enjoy it!
Posted by
Boscombe, Dorset, UK
964 posts
I agree with what Nancy said- I think you'll be just fine. Hope you have a wonderful time!
Posted by
OP
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
712 posts
Thanks so much! I love positivity! That's all I needed to hear :)
Posted by
Omaha, NE
134 posts
Monique -
I'm white, and I heard one racist remark between a cab driver and the Irish guy I was with. I told them immediately how offended I was and I didn't back down and finally got an "ach" as a sort of sense of them being ashamed they had been caught. Not necessarily any different than what happens here in the US. I think you'll also probably be easily identified (as most of us are) as American and they'll be just as welcoming and excited to talk to you and learn about you as they are with everyone. The Irish really do have the gift of gab, be prepared to laugh and laugh! You'll have fun!
Posted by
OP
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
712 posts
I am glad to hear from various people that the Irish are friendly folks! I think in every culture/country you will find people who either out of bigotry or ignorance treat people differently based on their skin color. So the occassional jerk doesn't really bother me. I just like to be sure that these actions are more the exception than the norm and it sounds to me like I will not have a problem in Ireland. Thanks!
Posted by
OP
Pittsburgh, PA, USA
712 posts
I like to consider myself knowledgable about all genres of music, but I had to look him up! And I am going to learn a few of his songs to break the ice! If in a bind, can I say I'm his cousin (on his dad's side of course)?