This is a receipt I received quite a while ago from a fast food Chinese restaurant (The Little Fast Chinese Man) in Plaza Magdalena in Cobán. Besides the offensive caricature (common here), you may also notice in the bottom left hand corner under Nombre Cliente (name of client) the employee took the liberty of filling in my “name” for me without asking.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Name: Gringa
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6 comments:
It doesn't surprise me. I was born i Guatemala, and I didn't have any idea that Americans fond that word offensive until I came to the USA. Sorry about that. I'm married to an American girl and I used to called her "mi gringa hermoza." --I didn't know--
Oh, I don’t find the word gringa offensive. I know it has offensive roots, and some people are offended by it, but it doesn’t bother me. I call myself a gringa. And I know most Guatemaltecos mean no offense in saying it...it is just a lot quicker to say than "estadounidense" or "norteamericano."
I thought it was hilarious that this employee just filled in my receipt with gringa (she probably didn't want to worry with trying to spell my name)…it would be like you getting facturas in the states written out to “Chapin.” Yeah, slightly annoying, but mostly just funny.
that's my name too!
you're white??!!
I am not white according to the people who insist on calling me "Chinita." Like the cab driver in the park yesterday who simply asked me, "Taxi China?" No, I don't want a taxi and I am NOT Asian! Being called "Gringa" is slightly annoying, but being called "Chinita" is completely angering.
You are right. I'm so glad you find this word hilarious. And you are also right that chapines mean no offense when we say it. We love you guys, especially if you are a PCV. People who get to know you in Guate really appreciate what you do to help the community. The problem is that we don't know how to express our gratitud. It is awesome to have PC in Guate. All are good people,specially you, and Sara (in Cabrican). That's why I truly enjoy your yournals. Thank you for all you do in Guate. Even though some times you feel you are not accomplishing anything, the reality is that you are making a good change.
Regards.
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