BLACK IN SPAIN | My experience living, working, and dating in Spain!
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- Опубліковано 5 лют 2025
- After living in Spain for almost 2 years, I wanted to share my experience on what it has been like for me living as a Black woman in Spain and what I've experienced as an expat here while working, dating, and making friends!
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T H A N K S F O R W A T C H I N G !
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I N S T A G R A M - / astoldbygabbiee
"I'm not trying to discuss the African diaspora and 400 yrs of Trans-Atlantic slavery while grocery shopping for apples and peanut butter" Ha! Luv it!
lol I'm trying to get my snacks and leave!
Okay!!!!! ❤❤❤
My favorite part in the video
yesssss
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 just got back from Girona and stumbled on this… 🙌🏽
“You know you’re American, but you don’t really feel a part of the American experience” this was the most perfect way to describe something that I feel like I’ve been trying to describe my whole life being Latina. I never felt like I ever had the privilege of using it as part of my identity ( living in the U.S) especially when people ask “where are you actually from?”
you get it! it's hard girl
I do feel that I am American. My family has been in America for many generations. Though our ancestors were from Africa. I feel no kinship to Africa. I'm just an American, who is Black.
USA is different usa is shit . I left America I went to live in Mexico and Spain . Spain is fab big sub for all Latin
@@BronzeSista same!
I love it! “ I don’t feel like getting into the African diaspora and 400 years of slavery in the grocery line .” 🤣🤣🤣 real talk…
I’m African American 🇺🇸 living in Spain and I 100% agree with everything you said lol. They stare ALOT mostly out of curiosity but it can get a bit uncomfortable.When you speak Spanish it does seem that they open up ALOT! It’s a beautiful country and it has a lot to offer you’re video was perfect ! 💪🏾 Enjoy !🇪🇸
you get it! yeah I try to use Spanish as my default especially because it helps to learn faster. Thank you so much!
I kinda want to visit. My grand father is from Spain. I'm not tryna get stared at like I'm an exhibit
I'm so sorry, I'm spaniard and many people here are racially ignorant, Black people exist here and people know it, but many still see it as something shocking, I hate those people
Wrong sweetie. You are NOT African American (if you were BORN in America & are the direct decendant of slaves). You are an American of African decent. African-Americans are actually immigrants who became American citizens. That's the whole and complete difference and truth. Have a very blessed day!
@@TheSamuelbest12 How would a black person be treated in rural spain?
I love this commentary. When you spoke on the fact that sometimes Black people are seen as caricatures or a form of entertainment 😢You hit the nail on the head.
thank you!
Thank you for being candid and considerate to everyone’s POV. You were smart to be fair, not fearful to be upfront. These types of videos are useful. Can help so many others.
Thank you for recognizing that! I think its really important especially while living abroad in different cultures
Gabbie, next you'll have to do "Being Beautiful in Spain" You're so darn cute! I just got back from Barcelona and loved it!!
🤧 printing this comment as physical evidence! haha thank you :) barcelona is a really cool city!
lol what? spaniards are known for being hot and beautiful people lol she isnt the only one 🤣
omg seriously, I kept thinking wow shes smart and gorgeous! ty for the video :) These conversation are so valuable! it's especially good to know the level of intolerance tied to a place as a person who is thinking of moving to Spain. It's never easy to talk about, but deeply appreciated!
@@mauricio5486it was a joke 🙄
She really is. I love a soft, feminine happy, smily, women/girl. If I had a daughter I'd want her to turn out like Gabbie. Thanks for this video Gabbie. I'm considering Italy, Spain and Greece for retirement, although a lot will change in 15 years. lol
I understand being seen as an American rather than a black or African American. In the military, when we deploy to foreign lands, most locals see us as just Americans; not black Americans, Asian Americans, or any other hyphenated adjectives to describe who we are. There is so much more to say about this topic but I digress. Great video!
I'm so glad I found your videos. I am considering teaching in Spain after I graduate this upcoming academic year. AND YES I HAVE THE SPIDEY SENSE!!
I love to hear that! Do it! 10/10 would recommend. Lol, you get it!
As a Spaniard, I cannot understand people insisting on the "where are you really from" question. We all have seen hundreds of movies about the slave trade from Africa to North & South America, and it is obvious that has happened generations ago. Quite stupid to expect that you could know from where exactly in Africa would your ancestors come from. It makes more sense to think if they were expecting you to say: Harlem, New Orleans, Alabama, Georgia,... Still quite stereotypical, but at least a bit more logical question.
agreed!
Moved to Spain during a tumultuous time in the US is an understatement... I cannot imagine the questions they have for you about racial confrontations in the most diverse yet most divided country on Earth at this point in time. I hope you continue to enjoy the friendly and curious citizens of Spain. I lived in Mexico as an Asian American for years, and that was a real eye opener. Spanish is a great asset to have in your arsenal, language breaks down the barriers.
Thank you! it has definitely been an experience but I still love it here
Thanks for sharing your experience, it is always enriching to know what it is like the same place from other perspectives. Glad to see you are happy in Spain and you understand that people are often curious rather than other thing
No problem, thank you for watching!
Thank you very much for posting this. I will be traveling to Spain for a week trip in September and yes I have been a bit uneasy because anytime I hear anything about Spain and black people, it has never been positive,l. I am hoping and praying for a good vacation when I go, so thank you for giving a better update about people from Spain.
Te an contado el cuento del reves por parte de la masoneris inglesa en España la esclavitud estaba prohibido,los matrimonios entre razas era legal todos los españoles de América de todas las razas tenía los mismos derechos que los españoles de la península,en ,los años 1650 avía un director en la universidad de granada ,el primer negro en una universidad fe EEUU fue en los , años 1940,los matrimonios interraciales en EEUU,a partir fe los años ,1940 ,o sea enserio nosotros somos los racistas?bueno siempre ay algo de racismo en todas partes
Te sentirás como en casa, el racismo en España es residuale, pásalo bien cuando vengas
I am black African 2nd generation from Spain. And everything you said it’s in point. I wouldn’t say they are straight racist it’s more general ignorance and stereotypes( from TV) but in general they are very friendly and even if you speak a little Spanish they are happy with that . And believe me, is not that they are proud of Speaking Spanish is that the average level of English is not good at all 😅a lot of people struggle with it. But yes! It’s a plus to learn the language specially the typical expressions, so you don’t misinterpret their intentions, Spanish we are very expressive and talkative people. I was the only black girl in my school and never had any racist issues just average “dumb”questions about my hair or if my skin get more tonned in summer 🤣🤣. And yes they treat Americans better, as someone commented, if you come from a “rich “ country they will treat you different rather than if you come from another no so “privileged “ country. So the racism it’s not so much with black people , but I’ve heard multiple times racists comments about South Americans, Eastern Europeans and North Africans( from Arabs countries). It doesn’t mean every body is racist, a few, I guess like everywhere. In general it’s a very safe country, I’ve never feared for my security when I was there and when I always come back to visit family and friends I come back full of energy and happiness, because the sun, cheerful people, great food, beautiful cities and lots of fun. So people don’t be scared to go an live there because I am sure you will have a good time.
agreedd
Although you have valid points it didn’t necessarily negate the racism. A society can have issues with both racism and classism.
We are racists. It's just that black people don't get the worse of it (not saying don't get anything, but not the worse). Moroccans and gypsies do. Black Africans are mostly perceived as unfortunate honest people. Black Americans are just Americans once the potential confusion is cleared.
I'm talking about the average Spaniard. OFC there are alt-right racist people, but that extreme happens everywhere unfortunately.
It’s true ther wre horrible comments but it’s classism. North Africans are Muslim mostly so there is discrimination there, Eastern Europeans are perceived as POOR so classism and South Americans are like perceived as….well Spain colonised them so there’s a superiority complex.
Hi Gabbie!! My name is Victoria- I found your channel while surfing UA-cam for "black girl in barcelona" videos. I know--random. What struck me is your username!! I too am an "As Told by" lol and I found it to be so amazing. I don't know you at all but I wish you much success in your endeavors in Spain and wherever else your journey takes you! God bless.
For context btw- I was randomly looking up flights to Barcelona yesterday (I wanna learn Spanish) hence the YT search, fingers crossed I get to visit in the future!! Meanwhile I have your vids on DECK!
Hi Victoria! haha great minds think a like! Thank you so much! This message is beautiful and honestly made my morning :) I wish the same to you and hope that you are able to make it over here at some point!
Spain is one of the best places to learn and fully immerse yourself, 10/10 would recommend! Or any other Spanish speaking country really. I have the travel bug now and would love to study in South/Central America too. Good luck!
Appreciate the video. I've been debating on going to Spain myself. Also from Virginia too
yw! i recommend
Thanks so much for this video Gabbie! Most of the things you’ve mentioned I’ve had the same experience as well, I’ve been living in Spain for about a year and six months now. I’m still trying not to get offended by a lot of things that they’re curious about or how directly they speak, at first I used to really be mad when I try to speak to someone and they say”¿Qué? Dime” 😂😂😂😂😂 I really found that disrespectful.
More videos please!!! ❤️❤️❤️ and yes you’re a beautiful black queen 👑
You're very welcome! Thank you for watching! And yeah girl I get it lol. But I'll also say, and I wish I had mentioned it in the video, that it's okay if you are offended by something to express that in a way that is still respectful of the culture if it's a cultural thing that was offensive. I think of it more as a cultural exchange/awareness. If I was doing something to offend a group of people I would want to know and I would hope that they would too. Whether or not changes are made is a different story, as we've seen with some holiday customs here, and maybe change isn't the expectation but I think it's important that it's said to at least make them aware of why people might be angry so that there's no confusion. But lol yes the way they speak can at times be refreshing and sometimes like damnnnnn lol. More videos on the way!
And as far as Black queens go, real recognizes real girl
As a black woman who has traveled abroad for several years I have you say, try to get past the staring. It's usually out of fascination, and questions about you. When I was in Vietnam and Thailand, smiling and/or waving went a long way. Especially in Vietnam. People would bring their children to me and try to get them talking to me. I fully acknowledge that racism exist in many different iterations all over the world. It is usually borne out of ignorance. Trying to communicate and being kind is disarming, and in my experience usually changes how a situation plays out. I should also add that I feel like Asians are much more gentle than Europeans. I've been to Europe many times too, not Spain but other countries there, and I must say in the Asian countries I've been to people are much more friendly and open. Europeans not so much.
This honestly made me feel better
thanks for sharing! I've never been to Asia but I'd love to visit one day. As far as being open and friendly I think it's different in each country that I've been to and can even vary from person to person but overall I've had really good experiences!
Asia is nice when it’s SOUTH EAST. Because east Asia (China, South Korea) horrible and racist people even towards tanned (SE Asian people). But Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia etc they’re so lovely. Actually, my mum had to convince a Thai woman she was black (West African) because they were the same shade of brown
Thanks for all the great info. I'm also from Northern Virginia and i just purchased a home about 45 minutes away from Alicante.
Thank you for being honest in this video, your a good speaker and real as a black women I need to here this.
thank you! so glad that it was helpful :)
Great video and thank you for sharing your perspective. I just got back from Barcelona and had an amazing time, even considering moving out there.
thank you! Barcelona is a good time haha one of the places I visited my first time in spain. You should do it!
Thank you for sharing this video! I will be studying abroad soon and have been struggling to find content from African American women about their experiences in Spain.
You're welcome! thank you for watching :) I'll try to get some more videos out soon!
I appreciate you expressing your opinion. I hope all is well for you.
thank you!
Hi Gabbie! I love your videos and I’m glad I found them! I think it’s interesting that you express your experience alone compared to your white counterparts. It’s ideal that the natives in Spain may have assumed that you are American and trying to learn their language, and/or Afro-Latinx. As I’ve visited Barcelona, I typically got the narrative that they believed I was in University studying or Afro-Latinx. Which I took both as a compliment because either way they only spoke Spanish to help further my practice with Spanish. Overall I am loving this video, and I definitely would like to see more of your experiences of dating as a Black woman in Spain, and in comparison to dating while you were in The United States.
Hey girl! Thank you for watching! Lol same it got to the point when I was studying abroad that I would explore the city alone and make new friends to practice my spanish. I'll try to get a dating video in the works lol but im nervous!
I thoroughly enjoyed your video. You are funny and refreshing in your recounting of experiences and the info you shared. Can identify with you, even though I was in Spain in the late 90s! It was a truly memorable experience, and I had the time of my life. That part when you said as you experience negative interactions as a Black person, there's always that thought in your head of was that just...?....Nah...maybe? That is the truth for us. No matter what, continue to enjoy your time!!
Thank you for this insightful video!
Aahh!! I’ve missed your videos! ❤️❤️ thank you for this video and always sharing your experiences!
I love this comment! Thank you so much :)
Hi Gabbie. Thank you for sharing your experience in a educated smart and positive way.I am a Puerto Rican living in the US for several years now. My hope and plans for the future are to retire to Barcelona. I have some roots from Spain. All this years in US have been full a good and not so good learning experiences. I have been in love twice to American men but I feel like they treated me in a certain way because of me being latina, not at the same level as they would treat white woman. That's was painful and interesting. Lol! Same on previous jobs experiences. Definitely not the case now working for a company that handles diversity extremely well. Anyways I wish you all the best. Thank you again.
Delmarie
hey girlie! you're welcome! I'm glad that you're in a better situation now and I hope that you're able to move over here :) Wishing you the best as well, thank you!
You are very intelligent Gabi and quite broad-minded. I've lived in Spain and miss it a lot! Thanks for a great video!
Thank you! Moving abroad has been really enriching for me :) YW! Thank you for watching!
So I learned Spanish 3 years ago, European Spanish and I live in the US. I’ve noticed that men typically respond in English, and women are intrigued that a black American speaks Spanish and only want to speak Spanish. Even the ones that just know like 5 words of english still respond in english. When I go to Hispanic parts of town they just assume I’m from the islands. For whatever reason to a lot of Latinos, a black person who speaks Spanish is automatically Dominican Cuban or Puerto Rican, as if no other countries have black Spanish speakers. It’s always funny. When they respond to me in English I just stay in English. What do you do?
now that I think about it you're right about that! haha that's interesting. and also same I usually get asked if I'm Dominican. I used to let them set the precedent until I realized ppl were using me to learn english for free and I wasn't even learning any Spanish. now I try to do a mix because I want to learn too!
Omg I look up to you:) I wanna be a teacher abroad when I'm older and youre such a great guide to what I should expect ❤️ thank you
You're so sweet! and please do it! glad i could help in some small way :)
Thank you for your transparency. I’m in college and I’m planning to study abroad in Barcelona this Summer. Your video was very insightful.
good luck friend! i hope you have the best time :)
@@AsToldbyGabbiewhat job do you have that allows you to live there?
Great video - in my time in Europe, I agree with most of these points
1. The NYC and LA questions is so real lol ... yall know there's other cities right?!
2. The prioritizing of nationality over race and ethnicity def takes getting used to
3. The immediate disarming of prejudice when they hear an American accent is something I experienced as well
In Spain we love black american people cause of the culture you have exported. Bel air prince, Steve Urkel, Michael Jackson, Basket stars, hip-hop, R&B, Whoopi Goldberg, Octavia Spencer, fried chicken haha, Beyoncé, Tina, Eddie Murphy, jazz, soul, gospel, infinite stuff etc. Usually blacks are represented as the most cool, natural, flowed, skills to express, funny, art gifted, sensitive people etc and all those adjectives could match with Spaniard’s personality too. We feel more identify with you than the classic barbie princess blue eyed, we feel your vibe.
haha you know a lot!
President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, etc…
@@sgthomas98he is a war criminal,very hated outside USA
@LunaLuna-jz1uq what wars did Barack Obama and Michelle START, Confucius?
Okay but you are so PRETTY!!! I love your hair! I am hoping to study abroad to Barcelona from North Carolina this June so, Thank you for the video!! So insightful! Now i know not to be offended by their staring lol
omg thank you 🤗! you're so welcome! good luck!!
Many Europeans are like that, we don't mean any harm. Staring is part of our identity.
@PlantbasedSilvi I did end up going Barcelona and visited Paris too. It wasn't bad at all! I feel the looks were more so curiosity more than anything
@AsToldbyGabbie You don´t need to take the question "Where are you from?" in that bad way.
As you said, we are curious in the good way.
In the US is very common to ask "What you do for living?", but in Spain we don´t really care.
It is a jarring question, and can be offensive.
@@onetexan1058 that is from your point of view.
From my point of view, is standard.
Hello! Im from Spain and I wanted to say that as you said the problem some Spanish people come up with are immigrants I find that is not the color of the skin as more the money you have. People here I don’t really think they have a problem with the color of the skin but with where you come from. As you are from the United States you have different privileges here than other people from other countries. It also can happen to white inmigrants like romanians for example. Spain is the “gate” to Europe so there is a lot and I say a lot of immigration, so that is mostly the problem they find, which country you are from, one with money or one without it? For some reason there is people in this country that think that those without money just came here to take it from us because they are going to take our jobs, which is super absurd. I wish there were less people who cared about the precedence of the people. In my opinion no matter the color or procedente you have every right as a human being to live here, and I wish everyone in Spain gives you the best experience posible! I’m sorry for those that don’t give you that experience and hope that you can overcome the rude people and meet nice one to have the best time you can here 🤗
it's a similar problem in the U.S. as well but overall I am really enjoying myself and have had mostly positive experiences! it's a beautiful country
I wanted to study there because I really enjoy the culture
But now I'm rethinking
@@joeydelmarco9879 go study there, it's a beautiful country and there's a lot of different cultures and different places to see.
Thank you for this video I want to study abroad in Spain this is probably the most helpful video I’ve found.
omggg that makes me so happy! I'm glad you were able to find it useful in some way :) good luck with your study abroad journey!
I just found your UA-cam channel and I have been binge watching cause it’s very interesting 🙏🏾🙏🏾
awww I love this! thank you for watching : )
Hi Gabbie! I wanted to start by saying great video and thanks for sharing your experience with us. As someone who has traveled to almost 20 different countries the "where are you REALLY from" question annoys me for more reasons than one. The first is that African American culture can be found in every corner of the world but in 2021 people still have no idea that we aren't immigrants. We are also the 2nd largest Black population outside of Africa (Brazil is the first). When a Black Brazilian says that they are from Brazil, no one is going to ask them anymore questions. The same goes for any other country in the American continent, despite the fact that none of us are indigenous to that land. At some point people need to educate themselves and stop expecting complete strangers to list off their family tree. The second thing I wanted to say is, respectfully, please do not feel that we don't know our "lineage". You're an African American woman from Virginia with West and Central African roots. I'm an African American woman from Louisiana with West and Central African roots.Our ethnicity and identity is just as valid as anyone else's and more than enough.
Hi and thank you for watching! I agree that it's not our jobs to continuously explain our existence. As far as lineage I'm more so referring to the fact that a lot of Black Americans aren't able to identify which African country that they are specifically from. Yes I can probably guess West or Central Africa but I could never know for sure unless I did some extensive research as I've only been able to trace some of my family tree back to the late 1800s. Also West and Central African countries, while on the same continent, are widely different with language, food, culture, etc. Rather than knowing a general area I'd love to know more specifics and learn more because it's a part of who I am and I wouldn't be here without it. I don't think that wanting to know more about where I come from invalidates my current African American identity if anything I think that it will enrich it even more.
@@AsToldbyGabbie Hi again! I wasn't suggesting that there's an issue with you wanting to know more about your African ancestry. I was commenting on the way you phrased your statement about us "not knowing our lineage" or where we're from because we know both of those things. No, we don't know where our ancestors were from specifically as we are almost 500 years removed from the African continent, but I disagree with the way it was worded. I think this sentiment is expressed by African Americans quite often but I've never heard any other Black group say that about themselves, even those who are also descendants of enslaved people.
@@nadiaburnett1933 Hey! Gotcha, that's fair. I think for me personally the word lineage fits because I'm referring to specific people. I know or can at least approximate my ancestry but I don't know names, I don't know stories, and I don't have any documents the way some of my Non-Black friends do because those things and opportunities were stolen from our history as descendants from enslaved people. I agree it is expressed by Black Americans a lot because it's true. But that doesn't mean we did anything wrong and I don't think there's any shame in saying that. As a child of parents from different parts of the diaspora, I see and can kinda understand why at least the other Black groups don't. The part of me that can trace back to a Caribbean country is less curious about digging deeper than the part of me that is Black American. But from what I have observed in my family, it's because they feel more tied and rooted to that country even though it may not be the country that they technically descended from. The language, the food, the culture, etc. are all things that they are able to hold on to when they move away from those places and pass them on to their children. As Black Americans we also have our own culture within the U.S. that is specific to us but I've noticed that the love for our current country of residence isn't felt in the same way if that makes sense.
No black ppl in the diaspora can point to a specific African country if slavery is in their history. It’s not a black American thing.
Carribeans, Afro Latinos, Haitians, etc., also “don’t know where their from.” Only AAs are questioned because we come from a majority white country. The other countries are seen as black so those ppl don’t get questioned.
@@AsToldbyGabbie Now you're going to have me saying, "Oh! you mean where are my great-grandparents from?? The US!!" That is CRAZY! But, I get it.
Spaniard here. Thanks for sharing your experience. This all makes absolute sense to me.
I find it frustrating how people don’t realise that racism doesn’t have to be blatant or ill-intentioned to be racism. I feel like the topic needs to be more discussed in society, which I believe is finally starting to happen, also because we’re (slowly) starting to have more POC and descendants of immigrants in positions of power. Of course, such debates also spark ignorant opinions about freedom of speech and so on, but I guess that’s just part of the journey in the right direction. 🙌🏽
POSITIONS OF POWER ARE NOT "POWER" THEY ARE AN ILLUSION OF INCLUSION AND THE BIT ABOUT ILL INTENTIONED!?!?!?!?!??!? METHINKS YOU MEAN UN -INTENTIONED RACISM, IS EASY TO ANSWER, WOULD THEY BE OKAY IF BLACK PEOPLE CAME UP AND ASKED TO TOUCH THEIR HAIR OR STEER AT THEM IN RESTAURANTS, AND I THINK YOU WILL FIND IT WAS INTENTIONAL JUST NORMALIZED THROUGH PRIVILIDGE, AND I HAVE NEVER EVER EVER SEEN A BLACK POLITITIAN REPRESENTING A WHITE COUNTRY SPEAK FREELY OR IN ANY REPRESENTATION OUTSIDE OF AFRICA EVER DO THAT IN FACT WE NEED MOVIES ABOUT WAKANDA JUST TO EMBRACE OUR CULTURE OPENLY, AND LET ME BE CLEAR HEAR THIS IS JUST A FEMALE EXPERIENCE ITS NO WHERE NEAR AS CHALLENGING AS A BLACK MAIL HAS TO NAVIGATE
Thanks for this comment. I am a Spaniard of African descent.
POC!?!?!?!?!?!, POSITIONS OF POWER!?!?!?!?!?!?!, FIRST OF ALL SO CALLED "POC" IS NOT A SHARED EXPERIENCE ITS A SYMPATHETIC EXPERIENCE AT MOST AND NOT AN "EMPATHIC" EXPERIENCE, AND 2ND TOKENISM IS IS NOT POWER, ALL YOU ILLUSION OF INCLUSIONISTS ARE JUST THE CURTAIN "VEIL" THAT CLOAKS THE WIZARD OF OZ TO PLAY US ALL GTFOH
👊🏾👑👊🏾
Girl I experienced the same thing in South Korea. I'd be out with friends (ex-pats and Koreans!!) and the waiter or owner would look at me and start speaking Korean. I had a similar experience being Black in Korea with microaggressions and curious questions, but I loved it. I am going to apply to teach English in Madrid next year, which was very helpful!
cool 😎
Have you ever considered that he might not be able to speak in other languages besides Korean? After all, he's Korean living in South Korea... 🙄
If you watched the video and actually read my comment you’d realize I wasn’t saying it’s weird he was speaking Korean but rather as the only foreigner at the table it’s funny that they would let me take charge of ordering, but good try though!
Thank you so much for this. Planning on going to BnC and your video really opened my mind.
You're welcome! It's still a great place to visit you just have to be more careful and aware than I was at the time lol
I've gotten the "but where are you really from" question as a Black American in the US from other Americans. I feel it comes from a place of ignorance and stereotypes (a side effect of racism). They see me has not being the stereotype they have in their head and think I'm from somewhere else.
agreed
It’s not really from a place of ignorance. It’s just a common European thing (however how annoying it may be).
Black Americans have been in America for hundreds of years.
Large Black migration to Europe began in the 1950s (for the uk), 1990s/2000s in Spain etc
A lot of black people in Europe and generally are first or second generation.
Our parents, grandparents or ourselves migrated from Africa or the Caribbean to Europe. So a lot of us know our parents language, food, culture etc
That’s the norm for black people in Europe. So when people ask “where we’re really from” it’s because we are not native to here and know our heritage.
So when we see a black person saying their just American. We forget that you don’t know your lineage unfortunately because it’s not the norm for a black person HERE not to know their lineage
It's not ignorance, they really want to know where you are from
I personally wouldn't be very offended by such a question, yet still. Would they ask a white American that question? African Americans have been in the United States for centuries. Most of us have blood stretching back before the United States became the United States.
I can see why another black American could be a little ticked off.
@@purplelove3666 as a person who got this question all my life (ironically 100% Spanish anscestry), growing up in the Midwest, I can assure you that for people who get this question it doesn’t at all feel innocuous. You know you are being instantly “othered”, by the person asking this question. I’ve counseled anyone I can to never ask this question. Basically, if you wouldn’t ask a blond American where they’re from, why ask a person of any color? Do people care if someone’s ancestors were Hungarian, French, German or Dutch? Do they ask them about their heritage? Probably not. So if you’re a person who gets that question all the time, it’s immediately uncomfortable.
You must understand that for the Spaniards race was never a problem. The first black grammar professor in Spain was Juan de Sesa in the 16th century in Granada and he married a Spanish noblewoman. Our cultural context is different, in Seville the brotherhood of the blacks It was created by the black community that had
If race was never an issue they would have never went to countries around the world promoting the “purification of the blood” concept. Spanish speaking countries still to this day hold those racial mindsets especially in the Caribbean/ central South American. Some people have even disowned their indigenous ancestry to praise the Spanish culture. You will hear so many Dominicans, Cubans, Puerto Ricans, Brazilians, Colombians to procreate with light/ white people so their babies won’t come out dark.
Forgot to add, I’m in France and I noticed the same thing. Most of the rude interactions I’ve had have been with people who aren’t French.
hello! idk where their bad rep comes from and i hope i never find out lol
@@AsToldbyGabbie me either lol. I think I’ve just been lucky
I really enjoyed your video and enjoyed hearing your perspective on living in Spain.
thank you for watching!
First of all your gorgeous 😍 ur skin is flawless and I believe the people are enamored by ur beauty period. My husband and I are thinking of retiring somewhere in Spain. My question is hair care! Did u find someone to twist ur hair or do u do it yourself? What about hair care products 🤔 cause lord knows I need My conditioners and My moisturizers lol like can u tell me a little bit about that?
Thank youuu omg that's so kind of you to say :) I do my hair myself! I started learning through UA-cam in college and I just watch a new video if I wanna switch it up haha. As far as hair care products, I usually bring mine from the U.S. and make them last because it can be pretty expensive to ship them. In larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona there are more options but you probably won't find the same caliber that you're used to in the U.S. During the lockdown last year I ordered braiding hair off of AliExpress for knotless braids and it took about 2-3 weeks to arrive. I think in some of the FB groups people have posted good sites that are a bit cheaper
I'm glad I found your video! I am considering au pairing in Spain in 2022 to improve my Spanish and to explore Europe. Glad to here over all your experience in Spain as a black woman is good!
I'm glad you found it too! I had a few au pair friends and its a great way to learn! It really has, my experience isn't representative of everyones and I'm sure there are times that are difficult for some people but I've been really blessed in that regard!
Great info! I'll be moving to Marbella from the Netherlands soon!
sounds amazing!! never been but it's definitely on my list
If you're were white he wouldn't have asked that question but he should know white Americans is not originally Americans they're European Americans.
agreed! lol you get it
America is still majority white, because in Spain almost every black person is an immigrant from Africa, a lot of people that might not know much about the history of America might think that you are an african immigran in America (which could also be), is not that deep.
@@user-ki4xw2rb8qthe fact still stands, they would not have asked a white person that.
Good one!🙌🏽 I’m a Latina Negra and I know what your talking about. That sense or gut feeling develops from prior experience.👀 Thank you for sharing🥰💋
that gut feeling is something special
Parker is not a very Latin last name.
@@emanueldelacruz1101 well, she may have Caribbean roots in her family. Caribbean and Central American countries have a lot of British surnames due to them (the English/Scottish/Irish) having settlements on the coasts. I say this because I’m from Central America, and in my country, you see people with last names like hers, Smith, Taylor, Williams, Wilson, etc. Not saying it’s her case but a possibility:)
I am Canadian and I’m also Black. My parents immigrated to Canada from Trinidad in 1968 when I was two. My first memory is a townhouse in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. When I’m asked, “Where are you from”, my answer is Brampton. When I get the follow up question, “Where are you from originally”, it’s usually with a “yeah right” tone in their voice and a snug look on their face. At that point, they only get negative attitude from me.
the "yeah right" tone is what irritates me the most
Thanks young sister for sharing your experience ❤.
Ah you posted this at the right time. I’m moving there soon and I’m kinda nervous haha.
For school ?
Same😭😹
That's great! Not gonna lie it's a bit nerve wrecking at first but I have loved my experience! I hope you will too :)
@@dubwavy6386 yes for school.
Not being defensive, letting go of prejudices and stereotypes about what you can expect from an entire population and not trying to explain cultural differences based on imported conflicts and biases will much help to improve your experience in Spain. Best!
"I know your family has been in America for 400 years *but where are you really from* "
EDIT: Do white Americans get asked where they're really from 🤔
this!!
I am white, and only non-Americans ask me where I’m really from. I so appreciate your perspective Gabbie, and I know that racism is everywhere. I see it all the time, living in a diverse city.
They should be.
White Americans are really proud and happy to answer that question 😂
This video just brought me so much peace! lol
this made my heart smile
I love ❤️ you. I smiled throughout this whole vid you are beautiful and a strong black queen 👑
omgggg thank you!! this made my day!
I lived in spain for a study abroad program in 2017 and whew...I experienced all of that! I found barcelona and the southern parts more qlecoming which is funny bc that was when catalan were trying to succeed. There were even posters and graffiti telling immigrants and foreigners to get out. Kinda scary but I'd visit again its a beautiful place
Your skin is so amazing! & Gorgeous ❤️
haha thank you!!
I was born in Madrid and I thought about moving back and the racism always annoys me. I have a God mother and some friends that still live in Spain and I realized if I'm out and about with them then things are rather tame, but by myself it's like what you said with the curiosity just comes in such waves. It's like woooo! I don't mind the questions it's the sometimes rude comments that follow the curious questions.
My parents were born in America, their parents are from America their parents were born in America, but their parents came from I don't know where. My Sister and I are from Spain.
Shoot my American friends (ALL THE COLORS OF THE RAINBOW) always ask the same type of questions. Can you twerk, can you sing like Beyonce or Whitney. Can you braid my hair?! It's like WHAT?!
Very good video sister, you put me at ease in regards to visiting Spain.
Thank you! I'm happy to hear that :)
I have encountered more racism in America than in Spain. I never had a Spaniard ask me why I speak Spanish unless it's a Spanaird from somewhere else like Peru. Granted I'm lightskinned and that may make a difference but definately I feel it more in America.
you are awesome I'm glad you used the word person which is nice every nationality have good and bad people wish you a sucessful and happiness
aww this is so sweet, thank you!
@@AsToldbyGabbie we are all respected each other
I definitely can feel it . I hate they r watering down your experience. I can’t deal
it is what it is but I refuse to let them ruin my time here and I'm really enjoying myself!
Important video!! Thank you!!
This is great and you got it all right. Thanks 🙏🏾 ❤.
I was born and raised in Spain and I can tell you that here they will ask you were are from even if you was born here. They won’t consider you from
Spain truly (most of them) for them we are all from Africa. When they ask you about your hair, your culture… is because they really wanna know and learn, bc of the bad image that the media puts on inmigrantes. Some people are really ignorant, like really ignorant. But in general they are really nice and lovely people, they will hug you and kiss you every time they see you.
And yes, you’re not only gonna have bad experiences only from Spanish, also from other immigrants 😂
And PLEASE if you wanna travel more in Spain, search the places you wanna go. Bc there’s still a lot of racists places from the dictatorship.
& excuse my English 😂
Thanks for sharing!
Your English is good 🥰
Where do you lived?
Maybe in some parts in central dpain or Andalusia...
Where i lived came a lot ot latinoamericans and africans in the last 20 years and i never heard a bad word about it...
As a native Spaniard, I know that racism exists in Spain, but It is of a different nature than in North América. It is not so much based on skin color (we know that according to northern European or US standards, we are barely considered as 'white'). It is more based on the lack of interest of other ethnic or religious groups of people to accept & integrate in our communities, due to their creed or other reasons. In that sense we could be more 'racist' against pale White English tourists or residents that show zero respect or interest on our culture or language (even after living here for years), than towards Africans or South Americans.
I agree, overall the racism here is a little bit different in my own personal experience. But I do think that it has to do with skin color because at the end of the day here when I encounter racist ppl (which isn't often) they don't care whether or not I'm American all they see is that I'm Black. I can tell the difference when they are annoyed or angry that I am American vs. when it is because I am Black, it's a lot more personal. I think what you're talking about is more about prejudice than racism. I am also bothered by the expats that refuse to learn about the language and or culture but choose to live here long term, it's pretty disrespectful of them in my opinion. In my experience as long as you make an effort, most Spanish ppl have been very welcoming
@@AsToldbyGabbie Sorry to hear that you are confronting racist attitudes & people here in Spain. I know it Is not the same, but I guess to some extent It could be comparable to some "unfriendly" reactions I perceived in the US when they heard me speaking in Spanish. Neverheless, not at all the common rule.
@@piofernandez3301 it doesn't happen that often and in some ways it's better here than in the U.S. at times. I think that's a pretty good comparison!
Inmigrants that call theirselfs "expats"
Interesting experiences. I am living 10 years in South Spain and most people that ask me where I am REALLY from are foreighners. I was born in Holland and when I say that in Holland I always got that question too, here with Foreighners I quickly have to say, but Yeah my parents are from the Caribbean. Oh 100% true about learn Spanish, here they can speak english mostly, but they treat you "nicer" if you speak the language and they won't have to struggle with English!
Looking forward to hearing more experiences!
Thank you! I'm excited to share!
This is amazing to listen to. Am considering living in Spain and thankful I found this account. Where did you go to school? Curious as you mentioned being from and studying in Virginia... I lived in Richmond for 10+ years. Did you go to VCU?! Cool to see you've lived in Virginia and Spain. Also excited to watch the rest of your videos and hopefully hear your Spanish!! 😁
Thank you! You should do it, 10/10 would recommend especially if you're already considering it. I went to Virginia Tech. Thanks for watching!
You are a very pretty and educated young woman. Don’t feel offended by closed minded and ignorant people. In my country you are a “negra” but we don’t say it in a demeanor way. I’m Cuban and negros and blancos are all the same from where I come from. And as it should be. Keep thriving in Spain. It is a beautiful country. I am a Spaniard descent and wish I could live there instead of in the US. Good luck and GOD bless you!!! 😊
Thank you :) I recognize that there are cultural differences and try to factor that in when I am reflecting on how something that was said made me feel or react and move from there. It's a process😂 but thank you, I appreciate it!
Liked and Subscribed (ALL) ...American living Seoul, Korea.
I’m just curious do you do your own hair or did you find a salon down there. That’s really important factor to me. Loved the video btw very informative.
Thank you I appreciate that :) I do my own hair! I started doing my own hair in college and just refer to UA-cam to learn new styles but depending on where you are located there are a couple salon options but definitely not like in the U.S.
Black Conquistadoresa and Generals in Spain WAAAAAAY befire the USA was even born.
1. Estebanico, Black muslim conquistador, sailed with Narvaez to Florida, a sea storm send them in the hands of natives which held them captive. Learn the languaje and became a celebrity Shaman amogst the Natives, traveled 10 years from florida to Nevada, as a Shaman along Cabeza de Vaca, super crazy story
2 Juan GArcia one of the conquistadores of the Inca Empire with Pizarro, he took part on the kidnap and ransom of Atahualpa and took his share (inmense wealth) Founder of Cuzco, He was in charge of counting and spliting all the gold the spanish took from Peru, He came back to Slain super rich and famous where he changed his name to Juan GArcia Pizarro
3 Sebastian Toral, Hero of the Conquest of Yucatan. Sold by the Porrtuguese as a Slave to Spanish conquistador Francisco De Montejo. During a Mayan ambush Toral saved his owners life and he said “a brave man is his own master” and freed him. He became best friend with the governor of Yucatan. A Military hero. He went dawn in history when he refused to pay taxes as he should be tax free sce was a hero. Local tax authority said that Africans should pay taxes, and if he wanted to be exempt go back to Spain and talk to the King……and he did, he managed to be received by the King who declared that he had been abbused by local tax men, and should be repaid with interests.
4. Juan Suero, Spanish General 1860 in Dominican War l Known as the black EL CID (see Charlton Heston Movie) for his exftraordinary bravery
5 juan Garrido, first African man into today’s US in 1508, Spanish conquistador, conqueror of Mexico with hernan Cortes FIRST PERSON TO GROW Wheat in America. Said to be the son of an African King whose father sent to Lisbon at 15 and was enslaved there and sold to a Spanish man o freed him.
6 Eusebio Puello y Castro 1859 Spanish Three star General, Medal of Honor equivalent, he charged against the rebels in Cuba saying “ i am a black guy and offer myself as a target (White) to the enemies of Spain” The all White men Spanish marine división he cpomanded followed him, sadly he took a bullet on his chest ,
7 Juan Valiente Black Conquistador founder of Santiago de Chile as a free man
this is so helpful as I consider moving to Spain!
I'm glad it was helpful for you!
I had the same experience. I was seen more as American and not Black. I studied in Alicante.
love alicante❤️
Black girl magic here…PSA…People stare because you’re so pretty! I got it a lot in Austria. Carry on & enjoy life unapologetically you.
plsss you're so sweet! I will continue to do so!
Ok sis! I always wanted to visit Spain. Lets connect! I live in Turks and Caicos
I'm a white Spaniard guy...and I love you, your skin and your beauty ❤️😘🌹
thank you, thats very kind!
Many Europeans are like that, we don't mean any harm. Staring is part of our identity.
I once entered into the AI which European population doesn't stare, and Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland were named. Does that match their experience?
27:39 i don't think u are seen as entertainment, u are simply identified in the culture that distinguish your people. For example, i am Italian, when foreigners meet me they always aske if I can make pizza, my Spanish bf always gets asked if he can dance flamenco, stuff like that
I get what you're saying but those things don't represent everyone and it can at times be a bit insulting depending on the way people approach you but I guess it depends on the person and culture. I don't mind curiosity as long as it's done tastefully and respectfully. Typically you'd have to ask someone one if they are Italian. As someone who isn't Italian, I can't just look at someone and assume their nationality but someone can look at me and make assumptions about my race without ever having spoken to me and learning about me.
@Paseos por Madrid doesn't matter its fucking annoying
I grew up being so enamored with "the idea" of spain and doing more research has brough my expectations back ro reality. I never hear good things about being black in spain. Even the ones that do say good things, appear to do so out of sympathy or wanting to appear impartial. Everyone can't be wrong. I have to put my pride aside and start listening to the warning signs.
En España no te van a comer ,no te preocupes tanto ,te expresas como si te estuviéramos esperando para comerte 😂😂
That is probably a good decision. If you are predisposed and looking for racism, discrimination, subtle verbal attacks or whatever attitudes you are fearful of you will find them at every corner and you will for sure find them in Spain..
@Astoldygabbie Loved this video. Where do you get your hair done? That's my only problem in taking the big leap to move. I'll be in Barcelona but I don't mind taking a train to go get my hair done somewhere.
Thank you! I actually do it myself but there are more shops and things popping up that I've heard of to get it done
Is funny, because they find rude if you asked them what they do for a living, but at the same time they kind a feel entitled to ask constantly were are you from.
It is quite ironic isn't it 🙃
What? In Spain, being asked what you do for a living is literally one of the first questions someone will do to you. Where did you get this from 😂
@@user-ki4xw2rb8q Really? You mean, by Spaniards? There might be cases but it is not the norm at all in Spain. In my experience, that would be considered as rude and too materialistic for a first social encounter.
@@Carmen-jj5tf I'm Spaniard, it's a question that literally anyone would ask you
@@Carmen-jj5tf And if you're young people would always ask you "estudias o trabajas?" (Do you study or work?)
You got a new follower today girl😍😍😘😘
tysm!! trying to get better about posting more consistently!
The staring is not specifically for being black or different. We do stare a lot, regardless of circumstances. I have not notice it myself (of course) but I have seen a few videos lately of expats pointing that out.
Am moving there at the end of the year and this is helpful...thank you
I'm glad it was helpful! good luck!!
If I asked you "where are you from" and you answered "I´m American", probably my next question would be : "Really? I´ve always wanted an American girlfriend!" 😁
Alright I understand you. If you wanna survive, English is okay, but if you wanna live, Spanish is a must.
I wouldn't say a "must" but I think out of respect it's nice to learn and if you're not in a major city it will probably make your life a lot more difficult if you don't at least have a base
@@AsToldbyGabbie ya....!! Also Spanish is such a fun and sexy language to learn. Thanks for replying btw🤗❣️🤗
@@Prajjwal1010 no problem!
So glad to find your channel. I’m moving to Andalusia in September to teach English. Have u been to any of the cities in the region ? Was it a positive experience ?
Thank you for watching! I visited Sevilla, Cordoba, and Granada when I studied abroad in 2017 and I loved it! The cities are beautiful and there is so much culture there. It does get very hot in the summers tho. The food was good, the people were friendly, and I learned a lot while I was there 10/10 would recommend!
Cool! I'll be there to teach English in Seville!
@@tiffanyedmonds1082 I’ll be in Malaga! Still waiting on my visa so stressful
@@syniahfeatherstone6295 me too! But I got my ticket on faith and hopefully I’ll be there on the 28th. I’m trying to meet all the sistahs I can!
@@tiffanyedmonds1082 what’s your Instagram? We can connect on there!
I know this video is old, but it's EVERYTHING! Also, you're gorgeous! Hope you are still having am amazing time and staying safe. Happy Thanksgiving :)
omg thank you, you're so sweet! I am lol "one year" has turned into 3 haha. Happy New Year!
I can always tell Lmaoo I’ll look at them or speak to them and say “they’re call me nigga in their head right now”
LMAOOOOO you ma'am understand!
Pues se equivocáis los fos@@AsToldbyGabbie
Not you breaking down the Atlantic Slave Trade at the super market 😭😭
literally in the produce aisle 😂 like get serious!
Hi! Please excuse me if I missed this in the video but which program are you with for the English teaching assistant job?
North American Language and Culture Assistants Program (NALCAP)!
I can’t do staring. Everyone has they’re peeves and staring I can’t do. It is unfortunate that this would more than likely prevent me from trying Spain. Also I’m very private and value my personal space and I do not like personal questions. I thinks it’s absolutely rude and it would really get under my skin. My husband is Central American and his family asks ALOT of questions… sometimes I’m like, are you not embarrassed asking these types of questions? They are very blasé with it. I can’t visit with them much because I literally would have to mentally prepare myself for the “interview”… and I’m not rude at all but it’s my personal right to not want to talk about my personal business… it is so exhausting. I like my personal space - Even here in California, if I go shopping etc. and say for example a store associate comes up to me trying to sign me up for the store’s app or sell me on a current promotion.. In a hot second I will turn around and politely ask that my shopping experience be private and unbothered. Things like that.. so I’m worried. I’m worried about how I’d get along overseas. The constant questions or lacking awareness that people don’t have to entertain questions can be seen here as intrusive and indicative of poor education or those that stare, people here automatically think that they are poorly educated. I’m not saying that this is correct, but trust me- it’s true here on the west coast (not in the south).
I speak enough Spanish to do whatever I need to do so I’m not worried about that, thankfully. But I’m really worried about cultural clashes. Will these clashes make me regret my move. I’m still looking for the right place. I do know that it’s somewhere in Europe. Thank you for the video; it was very insightful.
In Spain they are very sociable in general. But it’s not we are trying to be rude it’s more a cultural thing. But maybe if you have that issue try another European country up in the north where they are a bit less sociable. In Spain for sure you will have to interact because we talk a lot. 🤣 I hope if you give it a try at the end,you have a great experience.
@@LSarah36 since my comment I’ve spent time in Paris. Right away, in the airport, a gentleman in a suit put his entire leg in front of me to prevent me from walking by. He was talking to other men in suits - clearly they all worked at the airport in some capacity. He never looked at me.. he just kept talking to the other men in suits, arms folded while he put his leg in front of my suitcases as I tried to walk past. Instead of stopping his conversation for 10 seconds and turning to me and telling me that this direction is no longer accessible or I must go around to exit the airport - he felt it was best to keep talking while not even looking at me and just put his leg in front of me each time I tried to go around him. He literally would put his leg even further and further out in front of me as I tried to go around him…never looked at me once. A taxi driver had to tap me on the shoulder and tell me that “sorry ma’am, that way is now closed”…Otherwise I would’ve never known. It’s this type of thing that has me mind blown about basic decency. On top of that you will get completely blown off and deliberately told the wrong directions by some less than friendly Parisians. I almost missed my flight back to LA, even though I arrived to the airport two hours early. Airport workers were sending me back and forth across this busy street, 4 times with 70 pounds of luggage to and from the wrong place! I broke down in tears at Charles de Gaulle…. no joke.
Dietary restrictions? Too bad! Oh yea since we don’t understand you and you don’t speak French…here’s a huge 5 inch tower of raw salmon for your dining pleasure! The Louvre was amazing ❤️the architecture was amazing ❤️.. ambiance was very good 👍 I had a high rise on the 16th floor in front of the Iron Lady ✅❤️it was spectacular.
Next stop Almafi coast and London. Excited about London as I believe and English speaking country may be a “softer landing” for me. I heard Amalfi coast even though Italian speaking is much more laid-back than parts of France. I will try Paris again as the shopping is 10 out of 10 💫 and in all honesty, if I would have know a bit of French, my experience would have been better.
I'm white and if I go to Uganda people will look at me. That happens when something is rare, nothing wrong with it, it's more a "you" problem that Spain's
@@VmvmvmvmvmvmvI don’t see it as a problem- it’s a perspective, which is personal and a preference which are equally allowed.
This "Where are You Really From?" happens everywhere in the world based on my experience as an African American. Even in Canada they are curious because American slavery isn't taught in schools.
Not really, most of us in Spain know in America most don't know their original background, like the culture isn't there, it's very difficult to trace etc, but I do get an interest on knowing where someone's background is, like I want to know if I'm eating some fire curry when I get to visit your home 😂😂 I know we are sometimes to inquisitive but we are with everyone, I have friends who are Nordic and they're like "why do you want to know that?" 😂
Very interesting video. I think some of what you said about expectations can even be applied to the Black American experience. We don't all have the same experiences yet it's usually portrayed or insinuated like we do. I haven't had a lot of racist type issues in my lifetime and I'm in my 50's, very successful, and no I am not white passing. I've probably have had more negative experiences with other black people than I've had with white people. It puts me in a very weird position of people either discounting my experience or acting as if it doesn't count. I want to start traveling to some European countries. I appreciate the honesty of your review. I want to go to Italy because of all the architecture and was disappointed when I just watched a few videos that painted it in a negative light, but I won't let that discourage me because my love of art is too great. I seriously hope that after not being called the N words once in my life that I won't go to another country and be called it, but there are good, bad, and ignorant people everywhere. Thanks again. Will check out some of your other videos. Oh, an also, I don't know when the N word is coming because I've never had it directed at me, or even had it said by non-black people around me. No one in my family even uses that word and none of my friends or acquaintances, so if I hear it said by black people, it's on the street in passing. But again, I'm not your typical experience.
thank you, and agreed! definitely don't let it discourage you, I think it's still worth it to visit. I've had great experiences in Italy but also made sure to mentally prepare myself before. good luck!
Wait.... Is your name a reference to As Told By Ginger? lol Great stuff.
you sir understood the assignment