I am writing with regard to the article "Most Saudis are not racist, but racism still exists" (Jan. 6). I am a convert to Islam and married a Saudi. I was very nervous about traveling to Saudi Arabia and about how I would be treated by my husband's extended family. However, they turned out to be so kind and welcoming. My experience in Saudi Arabia has shown me that most Saudis are open-minded about others. I think it is because Saudi Arabia is a multicultural country. I also think that outsiders might have the perception that Saudis are racist because of the deportation of illegals. However, why should it be considered racist to ensure that the citizens of one's own country have jobs before giving jobs to people from other countries? Umm Malika, Online response II. I lived in the Kingdom for about seven years. I met a lot of Saudis and I have good memories in terms of their hospitality to foreign nationals like myself. Most of the Saudi friends I have are worthy of being treasured and being remembered till the end of my life. I am so thankful that even though I am not a Muslim I enjoyed the trust, kindness and friendliness of my Saudi friends. I salute my Saudi friends for welcoming me not only because of my technical expertise but also because they considered me to be a brother. Robert Llantero Loquillano,Online response III. There is a large amount of racism against the Bangladeshi society in the Kingdom. Even though the article mentions that the courts are taking action against this, there still seems to be laws specially targeting the Bangladeshi community. This would not be the case if there was not racism at higher levels. These kinds of laws influence and encourage Saudis to adopt a negative attitude toward these immigrants and to exploit them by looking for illegal ways to gain an income from them. SMM, Online response
