Brazilian Culture 3: Stereotypes
When I went to Buenos Aires, I came across two kids inside a store. They asked me: “Are you a soccer player?”. I said “No”. Then, they asked me: “Is your hair inspired by Ronaldinho, the soccer player?”. I said “No”. To make matters worse, the interrogation continued: “But, do you known ow to play soccer, don’t you?”. I said “No”. The kids looked at each other in doubt. I could imagine their thoughts: “Who the hell is this Brazilian?”
Unfortunately there are many Brazilian stereotypes: “Brazilian people dance samba very well” or “All Brazilian love playing soccer”, or “Cariocas spend all you time in the Copacabana Beach". So, I haven’t a clue how to dance samba. I prefer volley than soccer. I don’t have enough time to go to the beach, because I have to work eight hours per day. But I’m still a Brazilian.
Therefore, next time you bump into a Brazilian, be careful with the stereotypes. Forget the book “How to be a carioca”. Forget Carnival and soccer. Open your mind and discover how surpising the world can be!
P.S.: I’m from Brazil, Rio de Janeiro. At least once a week I will post texts about Brazilian Culture. If you want to learn more about Brazil and if you want help an English student, follow me and give me your suggestions. Thanks!