🇩🇪 In Germany, as in several other European countries, 𝐚𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐨𝐧𝐞'𝐬 𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐨𝐫 𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐧𝐢𝐜 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 can be a delicate matter, particularly in professional settings.

Over the past 25 years of teaching people from diverse cultures in Germany, I’ve learned that while curiosity about someone's background often comes from a place of genuine interest, it can sometimes make people feel uncomfortable or even alienated.

🇨🇱 In my home country (Chile), it’s common to ask, "Where are you from?"—a question that usually sparks enthusiasm and connection. However, I’ve come to understand that what feels natural in one culture can be perceived very differently in another. The intention behind the question might be harmless, but the impact can vary greatly depending on the context.

When I’ve engaged in deeper conversations with those who felt uneasy about the question, they often recognize the good intentions behind it. Yet, this experience has taught me the importance of cultural sensitivity—understanding that while my aim is to connect, I must also be mindful of how others might perceive my words.

In today’s globalized world, it’s crucial to remember that our cultural norms and practices don’t always translate across borders. What might be seen as a friendly inquiry in one culture could be interpreted differently elsewhere. As professionals, we should strive to create inclusive environments where everyone feels respected and valued, which sometimes means adapting our approach to communication.

After all, the goal is to build bridges, not walls. By being more aware of these nuances, we can foster deeper, more meaningful connections across cultures.
Of course, this is just my perspective, and I’m always learning from the rich diversity of experiences around me 🌍

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