What is it like being black in Sweden

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hey guys! Thank you for the support on this video! I especially love reading all your comments whether or not you agree or disagree with me. I love how you all have freely expressed yourself below. 90% of people who watch this video, forget to subscribe, so if you see this comment please feel free to subscribe! I WOULD LOVE TO HIT 1000 subscribers BY FEBRUARY 28TH 2022. Thank you everyone! 💛 Sending you love!

[@jonathanVA44]

I'm not sure the staring thing was racism... check out this video of two white people who experience staring in Norway: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZfbcqdoibd1eqM

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@jonathanVA44 thank you! I will definitely give it a watch!

[@andreaswennberg9542]

Girl. We are mostly white here, you're exotic and beautiful. Would be werd to not take the opportunity to see dark beauty in IRL. And yes, there are people that's rather protective against new things. I'll guess it would be the same for me to visit 🇯🇲.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

​@@andreaswennberg9542 🤣🤣 Your comment is funny! Though I wouldn't consider another human being "exotic" and I personally don't think it's a compliment. But you are entitled to express yourself for sure! And that's why I appreciate your comment so much! Also if you want to see more black people. Countries with more black people are just a flight away... I am not sure how it is for others in Jamaica so I can't speak on that. Cheers Andreas !

[@paulondawula1011]

Sooo...blackensippen?

[@theresahenderson3534]

I find it interesting of people denying someone else's experiences who haven't experienced it themselves. It's an amazing conundrum.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Perfectly said Theresa! , I dont understand it either... thank you so much for commenting!!

[@hildab2875]

I can imagine that many people who deny someone else's experience is because they really can't imagine it, they themselves have never been in a situation even remotely close to it and therefore for them it's easier to ignore or deny that it could actually be that way, like how many men don't believe womens daily struggles because they have never been there themselves.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@hildab2875 Very true 💛

[@landrydominic412]

a trick: you can watch movies at Flixzone. Been using them for watching lots of of movies recently.

[@romanmajor5850]

@Landry Dominic definitely, have been watching on flixzone for months myself :D

[@justtime2670]

Thank you for representing us as Jamaican so beautifully

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Big up 🇯🇲🇯🇲🇯🇲

[@danlindberg8020]

I am Swedish, and I think people are staring because you are pretty. I think people speak English to you because you don't look Swedish in sens of body languish dress code. Same reson we can spot Danish, Finnish and Norwegians from Swedes. I have black friends born in Sweden and I have never heard them having an issue not being adressed in Swedish :P

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hey Dan! Ahhh your perspective is very interesting and makes sense for sure too because I have definitely heard that convo among Scandinavians that they can tell by certain things such as dress code etc, a Swede from a Finnish etc. I've also heard other Europeans outside of Scandinavia that they can also tell different Europeans apart easily. So thank you for that analysis!! Soooo insightful Dan!

[@fakenattyrikssan3371]

simp

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@fakenattyrikssan3371 Thanks for your input

[@SymoneMaxine]

That's what I figured

[@lindaeriksson7461]

My thoughts also!

[@kbg990]

My honest guess of why people stare at you? Because generally speaking, people of color are not very common. You stand out from the crowd in that sense. I am certain that people don't do it because they think any less of you. You're just standing out. I imagine that if a white person went to a country dominated by blacks, that person would be stared at as well. I'm quite sure that happens. Also, what the other guy said is probably also a factor - you're cute.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for your insight! I appreciate it!

[@TheExcessus]

I think this hits the nail on the head, and it gets worse the further north you go too (because there are even less black people there). Heck I find my eyes subconciously tracking when a black person walks past, with no ill will or menace intended on my part. I can't control it really, and I have to concentrate really hard to not do it. There is ofcourse racism in Sweden, but most people couldn't care less what colour your skin is imho. And I bet that's also a reason why you have a hard time reading peoples expressions when they stare.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@TheExcessus I had to google what imho is, I am such an old person when it comes to abbreviations in texting 🤣🤣. I appreciate your insight and your honesty is refreshing ! I can relate in more ways than one in other instances in my life! Thanks again for your comment! Cheers !

[@air_kene3419]

I live in Lagos, about all the white people that reside here are concentrated in just the Island part of the state and the capital, Ikeja. We have lots of Chinese and Lebanese people here as well, so Nigerians are always on the lookout, wanting to differentiate between 'Whites and Asians'. The presence of a couple white people in the area where I live could cause a pandemonium. People would literally stop and stare unbelievably at them, they'll begin a conversation and even argue about them right in their presence! 😆 They don't get to see people of a different color everyday.

[@Luredreier]

@@air_kene3419 Yeah, I totally get that. In my home city of Trondheim in Norway (neighbor of Sweden) there's a lot of students from both Africa and the african diaspora in other countries (Afro-Americans etc) they make up a significant part of the population here so people don't really react much to skin color. But yeah, there's a bit fewer people with dark skin then white skin so just like someone who's a bit taller than normal or shorter than normal or who's in a wheelchair might draw your attention a bit I think skin color does too. Not because you really think that much about them, but subconsciously the parts of your brain responsible for the subconscious control of your eyes when you don't actively give them a instruction to look somewhere will look for things that stands out a bit like that... And I don't think that you should feel bad about that. Just, you know, try to be respectful.

[@laserforce422]

I'm half Gambian, half Swedish and I'd say that ur body language and the colors u wear make you stick out. People stare at me too sometimes, but it's rarely ever cus of the color of my skin. u can tell. Much like you I don't skimp out on the colors I wear and I also style my fro (braids curls dreads etc) and that makes u stand out. Our experiences differ a whole lot anyways since I'm a born and raised swede, and ppl can just tell that I am, which I think eliminates a huge chunk of judgement and prejudice. Great video! it was refreshing to hear ur unique point of view peace!!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi! Nice to meet you! Yes, I agree language and colours play a lot in perception than we think... and that's true, our experiences would differ since you were born and raised in Sweden which for sure probably why it is less likely or very much impossible for you to experience from an outsider's perspective and also vice versa ... Thanks for your insight fam! Gott nytt år! 💛 Cheers

[@jenniferhanno2977]

I am black and have been living in Sweden for the last 2 years now in Umea, I am experiencing the opposite to what you are saying. When I go to a store , they only speak in Swedish first and I have to ask them to speak English ( yes, everyone speaks English but they don’t ). I will say when I visited same city 22 years ago, not a lot of black people were here and there were many stares, but now none at all...... I have been to a few cities in Sweden , but not Gothenburg and not the staring that you say. To add to the mix my husband is Swedish we got more stares in USA than we ever did here in Sweden.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for your point of view Jennifer! Very interesting! This also shows that every black person experiences life differently. Also, I am happy you mentioned your experience 22 years ago! It's amazing you personally got to observe that experience of a city having very few people of colour to fast forwarding to 22 years when there is more. I also met someone in Sweden who shared a similar experience of Gothenburg 10 years ago versus now. Thanks again! Cheers!!

[@RexRegisPeter]

I think that the reason more people starts conversations in english in the south is because there is a lot of more international people both living and visiting than up in the north. And I think and hope that the use of english is out of courtacy and nothing else.

[@kr3539]

@@ShauntelAngelica Back in the day it was way worse. Nowadays most people mind their own business, if they do stare it's most likely because of your appearance because they're used to black people.

[@lo_battery]

Thank you for sharing! Considering leaving the US for a better quality of life and of course I’m curious about how Black women are adapting to living in countries that aren’t their home country.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Sure Loren! Of course each person has their own unique experience but I am glad this video helped in some way!!! You will enjoy your time in Sweden overall no doubt! Which city are you planning on moving to? Also try joining some FB expat groups which will connect you to other people who have moved there too.

[@simi9397]

Same boat sis. Maybe we'll bump into each other somewhere

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@simi9397 Yesss 😍😍🙌🏾

[@cainabel2009]

it is been almost a year now, have you left the US, the reason I ask is I am considering leaving the country I reside as well at least for a while.

[@normacampbell7385]

I have experienced the same thing in Sweden and I am a Swedish-American. First I thought it was my jewlery so I stopped wearing any. That helped but I still was looked at. I tried wearing just black or gray clothes and that seemed to be better. I determined they all want to look like one anothrr so much they are shocked to see anyone who is not like them.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hahahaha 😊 interesting experience. You're right too, because from your own experiences I think if someone stands out in the slightest, there is curiosity about it. Another comment here said that the curiosity is likely because they are intrigued to know where we are from, because the person said that Swedes can easily tell a foreigner by the way they dress, speak, behave, anything... Do you still wear your jewellery now or colourful clothes? Haha

[@normacampbell7385]

@@ShauntelAngelica Sure do. I have to do me.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@normacampbell7385 Love that! 🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@isaksworldoffun6499]

Hahahah yes very dangerous to be different,if you stand out than somebody might think you are WEIRD. Th Swedes are only afraid of being weird,,,🤣 But they are actually very awkward to the rest of us!

[@CZhang-ue5mr]

As a swedish-born Asian I've only been greeted in English two times in stores as i recall (and that was in gamla stan). So I think it could be(as some already pointed out) the way you dress that makes people think you're a tourist / "not swedish".

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Ahh I see...Thanks for your insight Leslie! Much appreciated ! 💛

[@CharisBrinkley]

Thank you Leslie

[@kr3539]

Asians have it easier than dark skinned people. It also depends on what city you're in. I found it worse in Stockholm.

[@erykahhoney588]

I took a ancestry test and found out I have 20% Swedish ancestry and decided I should visit and check it out. I’ve been watching black and Sweden videos all morning. Thank for posting your video and sharing your experience.!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hej Erykah that is sooo cool girl!!! I can't wait for you to visit, you will looove your experience! I am really happy you liked the video too! Do you speak any Swedish?

[@jdha07]

wow same!

[@sgjdsyevkfhao]

Im also swedish! Welcome to sweden i know it is 2 years late but i hope everything went well and i wish you good regardless!❤❤❤❤

[@emsl9953]

It makes me sad to hear some of this! Im swedish and i have never thought of the swedish society from a black persons perspective. Thank you I appreciate it! Stay strong! ❤️❤️🇸🇪

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for being so open to hearing my perspective! All the best too! Have a great weekend!

[@richarddelionheart8308]

I am from Nigeria Sweden is the best place to live in

[@tangfors]

I think one thing why people stare is partly because they want to read if you are Swedish or not. There are lots of other factors to read about whether someone is Swedish or not than skin color. Examples are clothing style, body language, etc. Especially if you work in a service profession, you become an expert at reading such things. I have worked in the service profession a few years ago, I think I never got it wrong, a Swede was asked the question in Swedish and a foreigner in English, you put some pride in having read the person correctly. In the same way, for example, you try to read if someone who is white comes from another country. Some may be harder to read than others. In general, i think Swedes are curious about people's origins, even Swedes regardless of skin color often ask each other which city they are from, as 4 small talk.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Daniel! Thanks so much for that insight!! It makes total sense, and I think we automatically do this as people when we see "foreigners" visiting , wondering to ourselves if they are from here or not, so you are totally on point with that observation! Thank you!!!

[@jeffreyl.i.4207]

People stare a lot on me when I am in Tanzania, too. They even call me “muzungo”. But I don’t mind. I understand, I’m a white man in a country of black people. Strangely, people don’t think I am African, so they talk to me in English. I mean how can they know I am not African? Why don’t they talk to me in Swahili? That is, essentially, what you are saying, when you are surprised that Swedish people talk to you in English and not in Swedish. You don’t look Swedish, so people speak to you in English. I don’t look African, so people speak to me in English, when I am in Africa. It makes sense.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Good point, thanks for sharing your own experience! What was/is your fav part of Tanzania?

[@jeffreyl.i.4207]

Thank you for understanding. The safari was beautiful. I also liked the people. They were always smiling and being polite. I enjoyed the kids yelling “muzungo” at me as I was standing on the balcony of my hotel room. Haha.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@jeffreyl.i.4207 Sounds like you had a really heartwarming experience Jeffrey!! I really want to visit Tanzania, overall I want to visit the African continent soon. Where else in Africa did you go??

[@jeffreyl.i.4207]

@@ShauntelAngelica I was just in Tanzania. I did see The Kilimanjaro, but I did not go to the top. Maybe next time?

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@jeffreyl.i.4207 Ahh that is nice the Kilimanjaro! Hopefully next time you get get to the top definitely !!

[@TheCaves]

I am laughing so hard at the part where you're talking about how they stare at 1:50 hahahaha. I was born and raised in Sweden and I never understood this part. My mom is Italian and my dad is Senegalese and I was never with the starring stuff, I just could not understand it. I remember going to NY the first time and my dad was like, ok guys it's different here, do NOT stare at anyone 😂😂😂 loved your video girlie!!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

🤣🤣 I also still don't understand it, so we are seeing eye to eye with that too! hahaha... Your dad's comment almost had me rolling on the floor laughing !!! 🤣🤣🤣 I had to sub to your channel, your family is so adorable!!!! 💛

[@TheCaves]

@@ShauntelAngelica hahaha yes I'm for suuure with you on that! 😂😂 hahah he was like, let me make sure I prep them before something bad pops off lol!! Awwww that is absolutely so sweet of you, thank you so much! Would love to stay in touch and Happy New Year!! 🎉🥰🥰

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@TheCaves 🤣🙌🏾 And Yes! I would love to stay in touch too! I will keep up with your channel! Take care 💛💛

[@carlys8439]

Im white and look like I could be 100% Swedish. And I speak the language quite well, I speak clearly but I definitely do have a foreign accent. However one thing ive noticed is that (sometimes) once people hear my accent (like at a store) they switch to English and just continue speaking English to me even though Im speaking Swedish. Do they think their English is sooo perfect? Its not

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for sharing your experience Carlys. Does this happen most of the times?

[@carlhaeggman2378]

One thing is that Swedish people like to practice their English, secondly most Swedes can speak English fluently(With an accent of course) so we switch to make it easier to have conversations. If you ask anyone to speak Swedish with you they'd be more than happy to do so.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@carlhaeggman2378 I agree with you Carl! And I love that !

[@imariapassao]

woooow... you are not the first person that I've heard talking about their experience in Sweden being this way...

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank God hahaha! I'm not crazy hehehe

[@tamiistew]

Thanks for sharing your perspective! I’ve always been curious to know what countries with not too many black people are like towards visitors who are people of color.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Aw no problem! Glad you found it insightful Tamoy 💛 But definitely put Sweden 🇸🇪 on your list! the nature there is beautiful 😍 I think you'll like it!

[@oliviabender136]

Hi Shauntel! Thank you for sharing this. It saddens me that your experience was like that here, but I’m not blind to the fact that racism exists here in Sweden. A lot of it has come to light during this year here in Sweden for me, and I’m sure for a lot of other people as well. I have heard Swedish black people talk about being spoken to in English so I know that’s an issue for a lot of people. I really hope that Swedes will stop looking away from these issues and acknowledge that they’re there so that we all can actively fight racism going on around us. Hope you’re doing well! It was a joy getting to know you when you were here, please come back & visit soon!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Awww Olivia! You're so sweet!!!!! It was a joy getting to know you as well! We had really great times together! Yes it is sad for sure that things are the way they are! Thankfully they didn't dampen my spirits during my time there! I had a looot of wonderful experiences that outweighed the questionable ones by 1000 percent. I think as a society we have a lot to work on. I think as people we have so much love to give but obstacles such as racial bias block that advancement and happier future that is attainable! I also think racism has its spiritual elements to it too, because we weren't created by God to hate each other intrinsically.. its a learnt human behaviour that has caused and is causing so much hurt. But I hope the future can be brighter... but lets see! Sending my love and greetings to you and Sawyer ! 💛 God bless

[@M.Đ-z4u]

they think you are foreigner that why they ask in english.that is not racism

[@Yhhmoyghkouffjj]

It’s interesting how you noticed in some countries people people had more expression on their face when they stared at you. I don’t think they were staring at you in a negative way however they are probably not used to seeing many black people though. I’ve never been to Sweden so I can’t say for sure but that is my hypothesis.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Mhm thanks for your input!

[@Tori00499]

there is something called body language ........... and as she said non-verbal communication do exist. Whether you agree or not it's a fact.

[@Frendh]

This varies depending on where you are but about 25% of the population in sweden are of foreign descent. I think the number is a lot higher though, because the percentage of foreign born people is about 20%. Just so there is not a misunderstanding, caucasians are also taken into account in those numbers. There are a lot of 2nd to 4th generation non-native swedes who still do not look like a typical native swede. TLRDR; People of colour should generally not be uncommon in touristy places.

[@mholm4962]

as a swede myself i can say that 100% its the hair cuz you stand out, nothing is wrong with your looks, your looks beautyfull :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you! :) And thank you for your input !

[@fletcher373]

She never said there was anything wrong with her looks.

[@mholm4962]

No she didn't... It was my own opinion, my own reason as a swede... cuz noone in sweden has a hairstyle like that. AND with that information she might know the reason why she gets the looks. BUT its nothing wrong with her style. IT looks UNIQUE and NICE.

[@Mai-sx3yf]

I think as a black person it isn’t uncommon to be stared at in mostly non black communities even in the US. Right now I live in the Bay Area and most of the black people are concentrated in only a few parts of the metro. I get lots of looks and double takes when I’m out in public. It used to bother me when non blacks did this but I got over it. Most of the time people would tell me they thought I was really attractive or they liked my outfit etc. I think most people don’t do it out of malice and sometimes I get my own people staring at me in a mostly white/non black area.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for sharing your perspective Mai, I do agree and have experienced this outside of Sweden too !

[@Mahis-kitchen963]

I am black, and i live in Sweden for last 10 years, and i am citizen, but i never feel that i am home ( secure ).

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Sorry to hear about that 🤎

[@chribjslaha]

I really don't get why it's so surprising why people speak to you in English, though? when I've been living or traveling abroad they don't usually start speaking to me in their native tongue because I look like I'm not from there. They usually start speaking to me in English. Thanks for the video :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank for the perspective and insight :)

[@sgjdsyevkfhao]

Thank you very well made video!❤❤ take care❤

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you! You too!

[@espnoberg6130]

As a Swede, I believe that what you experienced as starting, that’s usually just a Swede being interested in the tourist and quietly wondering if you’re having a great stay, or they could possibly also just have encountered someone they know and is just feeling up for the talking so now they’re just uncomfortable, not knowing where to look. (I know that’s probably what would have caused me to stare) Oh, and I love how you explained the part in the Swedish classroom. I feel like it usually is really important to be politically correct in Sweden.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks, Ester for that insight! It really puts things into perspective! 💛 Yes I agree too it is usually important to be politically correct in Sweden, and to a huge extent, I really appreciate that aspect of the culture! 💛

[@BurningSky444]

This is refreshing to read this feedback… I am I black American… I have a desire to visit Sweden… I smile a lot!!😉😊

[@HenrikJansson78]

@@BurningSky444 Very late comment here, but if you, as a US American think you smile a lot, then people will definately speak english to you right away. We know you are not Swedish. :D

[@BurningSky444]

@@HenrikJansson78 🤭🤭🤭

[@Victoria_Orlova]

My parents and I went to China a few years ago. In China, just about everyone is black haired with brown eyes, so for them to see blondes with blue eyes is just like a tourist attraction for them. We were constantly stared at by just about everyone, often having people take photos of us without permission and on a few occasions touching/attempting to touch me and my moms hair without permission. Most of the China trip was a really unsettling experience, but it gave me some perspective on what it means to visit a country where you're different in some way. I don't think the Chinese people were of ill intent at all, I think they simply couldn't resist looking at us because white people (let alone blondes) are near non-existant in China. I think we experienced pretty similar things, although I believe Swedes to be more ... non-confrontational/quiet/reserved if that makes sense. I have a hard time seeing a random Sweden walk up to you, take your photo without permission and then touch your hair for example. Them just looking at you with curiousness is probably the extent of it in almost all cases. I don't think it's necessarily good or bad to stare/look at others. It's just what people tend to do when observing something that's out of the norm. Whether it makes us uncomfortable is in my opinion based on whatever social norms we're used to, and that's not the fault of any one person in the place one is visiting, it's just due to the differences in social norms and setting.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for sharing your experience Victoria 💛 Your'e totally right, we had very very similar experiences. At the same time, I am happy you mentioned both sides of it: the natural feeling of discomfort when people stare but at the same time, when someone is not the norm, people will be naturally curious and that's normal too to explore our curiosity. And I appreciate your other point too, about a Swede's extent of exploring their curiosity is more reserved hence some staring at times, with probably in most cases no ill perceptions behind those stares... Thank you for bringing my attention to that ! 💛💛

[@sparker7768]

My cousin described a similar experience when she visited China several years ago. She says she wasn't surprised because she's a Black woman 😉 We grew up in NYC, so we're used to seeing a variety of people from different parts of the world, speaking different languages, everyday 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@ClaesWittenby]

Why does everyone insist talking about races There is no different races by human beans We are only different sauce of people depending on well hour Heritage comes from We Are All the thing There is no difference in racist We Are All the same remember that

[@ShauntelAngelica]

You are right. We should be united as humanity, but this is not the current reality, and inequality exists. So, until we are living in a utopia, there is no problem with sharing our experiences in a respectful way, and I hope you can appreciate and understand that. Have a good day!

[@freyjanorman3065]

Greetings from Sweden

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Aw, thank you for your compliments Freyja and thank you for sharing your experiences! It is very heartwarming. I am guessing people are just naturally curious then. Nothing for us to worry about it seems. Actually, I met a lot of amazing and friendly Swedes and I fell in love with the "close to nature" culture in Gothenburg... so definitely Sweden will see me again! Thanks again for sharing! With love, Shauntel

[@ValentinaHjorth]

I’m Swedish and live in Sweden. Sweden is a country full of different kinds of people from all around the world and mostly why strangers stare is just a common thing, most of the time there’s not a reason but to just watch. So don’t take it personally, it’s just a common thing

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for your insight Valentina 💛 Beautiful name by the way!

[@ValentinaHjorth]

@@ShauntelAngelica THANKUUUU🥺☺️

[@lolaakinmade]

I loved watching your wonderful video and completely loved you voicing your experience. Along this vein, I think you'd appreciate IN EVERY MIRROR SHE'S BLACK, which follows the lives of three Black women in Sweden. Definitely check it out.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for your beautiful words Lola!! And thank youuuuu for sharing this I will check it out

[@zoom5024]

I would say most looks are for the color of your clothes, in Sweden we dress in black or white & the shades inbetween that. Just look at the picture 1:24 😂 And by using that they could probably tell you are not from here and spoke english with you, you stick out like a x-mas tree, but in a good way 😊👍

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for the insight Mr. Hemlig!

[@notabadword4026]

Most looks are for the color of her skin.

[@nalunga64]

I don`t agree with your reasoning. I have lived in Sweden the last 27 years and I speak Swedish fluently, plus that I am integrated, meaning adopted the culture in almost all the areas. However, I am always stared at and spoken to in English, which is frustrating. It is difficult to be accepted especially in big cities. Another thing which frustrates me is that, black people are automatically suspected of being criminal even if people dont know you individually. This happens mostly when you go to high end stores, you get followed as they think you cannot afford what they sell and instead you are going to steal. I am frustrated but Sweden has become my home so I simply try to avoid such spots where i know I am not welcome.

[@pernilleroos5453]

In my experience, the only time I have heard ppl in stores talk English to customers is if they have heard that person talk English/another language when they were in the queue. How is it if it's just you and you haven't said anything at all since you got in? As I said, where I live in Sweden, out in the countryside, we talk Swedish to all, till they answer in English, this also happens to tourists, that are obvious tourists.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for your POV Pernille! :)

[@MedicalMilk]

this is very insightful and very well expressed! thank you :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you ! I really appreciate that! 💛

[@ewilson8504]

"Are you looking at me" LOL that's great. Well done.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

😁HAHAHAHA

[@Serbxden]

I think I got an idea why atleast some of those people stared, here in Denmark, and I'm pretty sure in Sweden aswell those few black woman you see (mostly somalie's) wear headscarf, burka, while you on the other hand appear like a 'western' black woman which is rare, I've only seen a few of those over my lifetime.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Oh Okay. Very very interesting point of view .Thank you ! I also saw Muslim black women in Sweden that covered their heads. However, I also observed several black women there that didn't cover their head either so its also really hard to tell. But you made a good point Stefano!

[@bjoardar]

@@ShauntelAngelica I think it varies from person to person, but overall people are probably just curious (like: who is that? Is she from here or elsewhere? She's pretty, I wonder what her name is?) Also, some (like me) look at people and give a nod with the head. I don't usually say "hello" or "hi" but if our eyes meet, I greet :) Btw, I think a lot of the cases where people started talking to you in English can have to do with prejudices. Sad but true. Some immigrants speak better English than Swedish, even if they've lived in Sweden for a long while, so it's simply practical to guess English and if wrong, switch to Swedish. Swedes as a general rule of thumb are bilingual, so switching back and forth between English and Swedish isn't difficult for most of us. The people I know don't think much of it, so it is unfortunate if it caused you discomfort. I genuinely don't think there is or was any ill will behind it (some of that Swedish "backlash" on full display here *chuckle* ). I also would like to give you some food for thought. Where you always shopping alone? If not, could it be, that the cashier overheard you talking English, and simply picked up on that? Any way, I think it was interesting to hear your take on being a black woman in Sweden, and I hope you'll come back some day. We got some awesome nature and due to "allemansrätten" or "the right to roam", you get to explore to your hearts content :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@bjoardar I hope your name is "Bjoardar" haha I wanted to address you on a first name basis in my reply. 😊. First and foremost Bjoardar , you get the award for the longest comment I've ever received! Congrats haha! But most importantly, I appreciate all the thought that went behind it. You presented really great points here that puts a lot of things into perspective! And I appreciate the Swedish backlash too *nostalgic* hahahahaha. Interestingly, yes I mostly shopped alone, but I also shopped with other people a sometimes too. Also! thank you for the invite! I will definitely visit again to really bask with nature more. I really appreciate the allemansrätten concept! Any suggestions on places I must go so I can leave with a contented heart (haha)?

[@bjoardar]

@@ShauntelAngelica Close, it's a nickname a friend gave me. My name's "Björn" but you can call me Bear if you like ^^ There's a lot to see in Sweden for sure. From the colorful beech forests in the autumn in south Sweden, to the majestic mountains in the north, and fun festivals like the "medieval week" on Gotland, there's plenty to see and do here :) If you ask me for a recommendation, I have to say that you should def. visit during the summer or early fall, and with a friend or friends, go hiking in our "fjäll" or mountainous area further north (bring plenty of mosquito repellents haha). It can be breathtakingly beautiful, and to sit outside a tent in the early fall and make some hot dogs over the fire while laughing with your friends and looking up at the aurora borealis dancing across the sky is just magical. I hope you get a chance to experience that one day, but just enjoying the views, eat freshly picked raspberries and drink directly from a cold mountain stream with your bare hands is for a sure things you'll carry with you for ever :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@bjoardar Thanks Björn or Bear ^^ Cool nickname by the way! I know someone with the name Björn too! Thank you sooooo much for all these suggestions! Sooo amazing and exciting!

[@tonywalton1052]

Love Sweden, the people are so expressive and full of life.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

I'm happy you enjoyed your time there too

[@BurningSky444]

So nice to hear… very positive 🤎….. Thank you for sharing 🙏🏽

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you! And thank you for the support!

[@AEPMUSlC]

It's weird that people stared at you like that (and a bit shameful as I'm a swede), in the bigger cities Swedes definitely aren't "unaccustomed" to black people as it's very mixed where ever you go. I've also heard it's very hard to learn Swedish not because the language itself is hard but because generally we're are more than happy to switch to English during conversations.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks Adam for your insight and perspective 💛. It was great to read. And yes you are so right, learning Swedish is harder because most people you interact with speak English . I love hearing Swedish and I love the language . Unfortunately I did not get to learn more than 5 words 😅😭

[@yuckie3204]

I actually went to Stockholm and I still got stares (mainly from men) as a woman of color. I was confused because I see lots of people of color in Stockholm.

[@SandpaperKisses]

Glad to hear that you mostly had a nice stay in my hometown! I think some swedes live in denial about racism and exotification. In recent years, immigration in Sweden has become very politicized. It is unpleasant to have to search oneself and one's society and I think people would rather deny the existence of racism.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

I really appreciate your comment! 💛

[@leewalters4393]

Thank you for the consistent videos. I think they probably looked at you in awe because your so beautiful also in admiration and curiosity, because I think alot of them don't see person's of color everyday. So their probably wondering what you are like or what language you speak 😉

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you Lee!!!! So sweet! I appreciate your perspective too! I'm sure there was some curiosity haha but I will never truly know for sure. Or maybe they were just looking over my head at the beautiful blue sky hahaha and them staring at me was all in my head 😉 hahaha

[@lisahileman6727]

How would they react if you stared back and asked them why they were staring?

[@yuckie3204]

Did you get stares in Stockholm too? I am a person of color and I got stares in Stockholm, which I was confused because there are lots of people of color in Stockholm.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

I did not get stared at in Stockholm ( well not that I noticed)... but you are right, I observed a lot more people of colour there than in Gothenburg

[@doctor_crow]

OMG, you’re so underrated This video is very informative great job! 👍👊 I subscribed 🤗

[@ShauntelAngelica]

And the winner goes you to for making my day! hahaha thank you so much for your kind words! 💛💛

[@kristofferhellstrom]

You look cool. I don't mean to be a creep but i would guess you where 'turning heads' rather then people looking at you because you are black. I haven't heard colored Swedish people being spoken to in english. People most likely understood that you weren't Swedish. Never heard Sweden being compared to a cheesecake before hehe :D Cheesecake is nice

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hahaha Kristoffer, interesting point of view! And thank you! I really appreciate your insight 1000 per cent! By the way, you can now tick "hearing Sweden being compared to a cheesecake" off your bucket list! ;) haha :D And I am glad you also like cheesecake! Isn't it just absolutely tasty? 😍

[@kristofferhellstrom]

@@ShauntelAngelica mm it's so good but it can't compare to kladdkaka :D

[@kristofferhellstrom]

People keep talking about swedish cinnamon bun but the kladdkaka is the best 😍

[@leewalters4393]

Ikr she's beautiful ❤️ I'm guessing that they looked in awe , admiration and curiosity because some of them hardly see persons of color

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@kristofferhellstrom Oh wowwww the pics of Kladdkaka look so tasty! It is similar to a Jamaican pastry we have! I didn't try it when I was there. I tried Semla and the cinnamon bun though and the semla was so light and tasty!!! 😍 I will put "try Kladdkaka" on my bucket list though hahaha !

[@orwakennedy9073]

I got a permanent contract in sweden, I moving there in august . I am just wondering how its going to look like in terms of the weather 😂for social culture, I have been Germany I hope it won't shock me as such 😅😅

[@lmao2351]

Black people are not uncommon in Sweden. Sweden is very diverse. People most likely stared at you as they noticed you were not Swedish. I live in Sweden, you notice straight away if someones a tourist based on their body language, facial expressions, energy etc.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for your input.

[@kr3539]

You're beautiful, they were probably just checking you out. I'm African, raised in Sweden. Lived and visited several European countries where I did feel like people stared. Sweden is one of the more liberal countries.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you and thank you for your insight into your personal experiences. I appreciate it.

[@fukkatsu4]

"Yeah representing Jamaica here" Instant like

[@ShauntelAngelica]

💛💛💛💛💛🇯🇲 THANK YOU CARGILL!

[@gillandbomz7680]

Tanks for the journey 💪 big up u self

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Aww big up yourself too 💛💛

[@joakimeen]

as a Swede, I would say that the reason people stare is because you are beatiful.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you! I appreciate your kind words!

[@mariaasplund7367]

Thank you so much for your interesting input

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you Maria! I really appreciate your receptiveness to my experience ! I still love Sweden! One of my favourite places I've visited! Every country has room for improvement you're right! Have a good day! Thanks again!

[@mariaasplund7367]

@@ShauntelAngelica Well, you know... :) ...I have had quite a few 'guests' shall we say and also traveled quite a bit myself. What we all must realize, I think, is that we all perceive things through past experience. Like, 99 percent of the ppl staring do that by reflex here, they don't even think about it. But so you point it out, that this can be sensitive, and you are strong enough to point that out. Ppl can perceive that in a million ways wherever they're from depending on what they have been through and how they're feeling that day, and maybe there are individuals who feel genuinely bad from this, so perhaps people could keep that in mind. I can give you an example that I experienced. A 'friend of mine came to stay, and a few days into his stay some flowers in my front garden were all wrecked, and he instantly thought that was someone in the neighborhood having a say about his presence. There was no telling if it was at the time. So, a few days went by and then we saw who the culprits were: It was birds. But, I also experienced other things here in Europe, you know, when it wasn't...birds...

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@mariaasplund7367 Wow a perfect example about the power of perception! You seem like such a welcoming person! And also very aware but also open to the natural love and warmth that us humans are very capable of! I also love hosting people and have quite a few stories myself! Thanks for sharing !

[@isaksworldoffun6499]

@@mariaasplund7367 can I ask you? Why is it like that? When I was little my mum told me it's rude to stare and would say "stop" if she cought me staring at somebody. Do you learn that in Sweden or not? Because there everyone stares all the time. Sometimes I wondered if it was something wrong with me , they would walk and stare and sometimes turn their heads while staring. And I am normal looking but not a Swede. Is it part of culture or just nobody ever said it's bad to stare or just people do it anyway? I think it's strange. My mum gave me a tip-when people stare at you, you start staring at their shoes ! And they stop!

[@mariaasplund7367]

@@isaksworldoffun6499 So, you say that you are "normal looking". What is normal looking??? And as you say that you are "normal looking" what would be "not normal looking" to you??? You said it. Did your mum teach you this too?

[@parisprince1602]

Hi Shauntel. AMAZING CONTENT. I will explore the world just like you!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you Paris! I havent forgotten that trip to France I promised :)

[@rolandgustafsson5655]

Perhaps Swedish people looking at you because they think you're beautiful 😘

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you! That is very sweet of you!

[@kuningas-l1b]

Why did you go to Sweden in the first place ? Exchange studies?

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Daniel , Yes I did for an exchange

[@jsvensson8234]

I love your summer hair. So pretty 💖 Also, I'm white, and Swedish, and I get stared at all the time. It's just how we look at one another I guess. I don't notice it much unless I've been away for a while. Then, up on coming home to Sweden, the staring is so super obvious in the first couple of weeks. After that I stop noticing again. I do feel you however. I get the discomfort. Sorry about that on behalf of us Swedes.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Awww your comment is so sweet! 💛 I also agree after a while is it easier getting used to. Thank you for sharing your experience J, I really appreciate that!

[@jsvensson8234]

@@ShauntelAngelica I'm guilty of staring to sometimes, especially when I find someone to be pretty, wearing something I like a.s.o. I guess it's kind of a stare of admiration 😄 I do it with a blank expression (cos I'm busy thinking about whatever I'm admiring, like "wow, that coat is so nice, I wonder if I could pull it off...", or "wow, what thick hair, I wonder if...") and I don't even notice I'm doing it (I would never stare intentionally, way to shy for that). My best friend calls me on it all the time 😂 We're not the worst though, us Swedes. In southern Germany , they really really really stare. Like properly turn their head and just follow you with the most intense gaze. Google "the German stare" and you'll get an idea of what I'm talking about. I'm glad us Swedes aren't that bad yet and I'm really trying to get better myself. I just sometimes forget 🤦‍♀️

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@jsvensson8234 Hahahaha I will definitely google the German stare. Now I am curious :) And thanks for sharing your experience hahaha. We all stare sometimes without even noticing so that's normal especially staring because of admiration haha 😊 so no need to feel guilty!

[@aneshalove226]

Girl I legit recorded this today 🤣🤣 After a while you stop noticing the stares tbh

[@ShauntelAngelica]

😂😂 yaaass gurl...

[@ladymis4085]

You sound like my cousin Gabby who’s in Portmore 🥺

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Haha 😊

[@kai979]

Interesting video, my experience of Sweden was similar, and I just put it down to curiosity. I look forward to watching more of your videos.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Kai you're welcome and welcome to my KZbin family! Yes I also agree that curiosity played a substantial role! Cheers~

[@collinhenry9996]

My parents from Jamaica, I was born here in Canadian city of Toronto. I remember when I was 8 years old whole family move to town called Aurora and I end up going to school in smaller town where half of the school keep stair at me since was only one other black student.I also get into lot of fights as well who call racist slurs at me

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Collin, sorry to hear about your experiences at that time 💛 . It is also great meeting someone on here with Jamaican lineage.

[@youalreadyknow6763]

Trying to move to Sweden would love to learn more about best place to move etc

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Irebia , such a beautiful name by the way!!! Which part of Sweden are you planning to move to?

[@dqgie8490]

Visiting sweden for the first time as a black man. The stares are definitely noticed everywhere i go but i am greeted in swedish more often than not. I will say people aren’t as friendly as they are in southern US but could just be a culture difference.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for sharing your first hand experience ! I highly appreciate it!

[@bzb2932]

Enjoyed your video. I lived and worked in Sweden many years ago (back in the 80s). I loved it. Please read Edward T. Hall's books about culture especially communication styles. You and Swedes are polar opposites in that regard. Peace.

[@sichuansnatt]

Personally i would say whether people stare or not depends wheter they grew up in a city or town that took in many refugees, personally I've moved around a few times and the most recent was between a place called storvik and a place called hofors(they are about 20 min away from eachother with a car) in storvik I cant ever remember seeing a black person, but in hofors a third of my School was black, thus i got very used to seeing people with darker colour, but I admit that when i first moved i stared a lot. Then it might be that, at least in my experience, most black girls in sweden wear a hijab. I think that at that school in hofors i saw maybe a maximum of 10 darkskinned girls that didn't wear a hijab, there were around 400 people in that school. But once again this is just my thoughts and experiences, on top of that I've never lived in a city. Just visited.

[@gustaviii_carlgylling]

I'm Swedish, I'm not black but I'm short and have dark hair and a dark beard. And people here (both natives and immigrants) often assume that I'm not Swedish. My family has had the same experience. I think there is an idea of Swedish people being tall and blond with light skin, and when they aren't, they're assumed to be foreigners or immigrants. But there's never been a time in history when every Swede was blond, even though we're more of a mix now than 50 years ago. So it's about stereotypes rather than reality.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for sharing your experience, Carl! Very insightful! What you said really got me thinking and I do agree that there is a circulated thought on what a Swede "looks like' which as you said is usually a blond hair, tall, light skin person. And often this stereotype, perpetuated by Swedes and non Swedes worldwide, and even the media of course, has birthed experiences like yours, and other Swede that get labelled as ex-pats because they don't fit into the stereotype. And of course, It also births experiences like mine.

[@gailallen8638]

I'm from the Caribbean I'm dark skin as well and I've been to Sweden like 4 times I felt like I was white or maybe I dont care just doing me I cant remember anyone lookin at me ...how do we know that people are looking at us if we are not looking at them aswell....maybe we are expecting to be looked at and its in our own minds at times.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Caribbean family, Hi!!! 😊 💛 Thank you for your feedback. As I mentioned in the video, everyone has their individual experiences. I find it wrong to dismiss my own observations or dismiss yours because you didn't experience the same or I didn't have your experience. I have spoken to many other black people in Sweden and for some of them, our experiences were VERY VERY similar. Furthermore, a fun fact, I actually travelled to Sweden with 2 other Caribbean nationals and we discussed all the time our shared experiences which correlated seamlessly. One of them almost had a little breakdown and almost slid into depression because of their experience while I never had that struggle and got used to things pretty fast. Thus stressing the point that travelling anywhere is an INDIVIDUAL experience.

[@gailallen8638]

I think when one has a highconfidence level, their experience may be different from someone with low self-confidence I'm not speaking about feeling better than others, but within our own skin... So if we were to say that in our own country people don't stare it would be untruthful coming from the Caribbean this happened all the time ...but if it's within the same race its ok why . We need to stop searching peoples faces for approval . We don't need it. I can put alot of reasons on here why insecurity falls on us the black people from the amout of black men and women trying to bleach / lightening their skin colour too the men not commiting to his black queen. So women staring at each other is not new we doit to our own so If a white Man or Woman does it He /she can just be looking at your beauty your shape your skin your hair it dont matter they are people too , I think people make it out to be more than it is we are the only people that comes in so many various shades of brown why not just be proud of that Sweden is a beautiful country that actually makes everyone feel at home thats my opinion grate place to live just dam expensive.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@gailallen8638 Yes Sweden is a very beautiful country with great people !! I agree with you it is quite expensive but I got used to that very quickly and it didn't bother me much ...

[@MarcWatsonII]

Thank you for the insight !

[@ShauntelAngelica]

You’re most welcome!

[@pumlajenn2162]

One of the places I would love to visit Sweden .I don't know if I can handle the cold though cause I see you playing in the snow ..

[@ShauntelAngelica]

You should definitely visit ! You will love it!! It can get really cold definitely 🤣but you will get used to it!

[@janlaag]

Hiii! I am watching minute 3.46 of your video and thought i might try to answer your "how would you know that i am not Swedish?" question. So to me for instance (not a swede and been an immigrant in other states for some years) it kinda comes natural to catch on some hints that combined together have me to often recognize some nationalities (that are normally the ones with which i interacted the most up to now). This hints, besides somatic traits that, as you kinda pointed out, do not belongs to "newcomers" (first generation immigrants for instance) may be into the way that people move or in how they wear their clothes for instance. Living in the same place for many years (which is what is normally required to officially have a particular nationality) means that the person kind of absorbed some of those small details that people from that same place normally have because of how mirror neurons function in our brains and so that's how nationality often shows a little bit even without talking. Even if maybe the Swedes you interacted with had no clue what your nationality is, they may have noticed that you don't have what's typical from their country and guessed that you probably weren't Swedish. All this to say that the staring was probably mostly a curiosity thing coming from the fact that as you yourself noticed there aren't many people with your look there and the English was probably just a form of kindness (i am white but short, brown eyes, brown wavy hair and when i've been to Sweden everybody spoke English to me as well). So i don't know, i hope this was of use! 🌺

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Ahhhh okay Jan, thank you for that insight! Makes al ot of sense how you would be able to distinguish. Thank you ! Very helpful

[@Dee.k-Digital.Education]

Im raised here as a black muslim woman, people DO stare and now im just used to it and the worst thing is the blank faces you cannot read. I have not experie ced people speaking english to me, it happend but not to much. And here people want everybody to look the same hence the Grey and black clothing and people are quite and never share their true opionions, sometimes i feel I live among robots

[@ShauntelAngelica]

I resonate with a lot that you have said. Thanks for sharing how you feel

[@alpha3305]

Hej Shauntel. The speaker at the university that talked about inclusivity in that lecture, would you still have the name so I can request her services at another school in Sweden? I would like to share such a perspective to my Swedish students as well.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Trey, omg, I cannot remember her name right now. I wish it would come to me as I write this so I can tell you, but if I remember in the future I will let you know.

[@gayalux1688]

I was the only white person in Africa too, many many years ago (1995 Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania). People were very surprised to see me, especially when I took the local matatus (Kenyan style bus), they all made jokes and the men were often flirting their head off. I think Northern European people are very cutoff from their emotions because, in my experience, the more comforts you have, the more your soul falls asleep. I know, we all want security but security makes us comfortably numb as Pink Floyd would put it. We must relearn to live in the moment with our hearts wide open because feelings do not lie but thoughts are the result of a fearful self.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Aww thank you for sharing your experience. Beautiful words.

[@vasselldonn5104]

This was beautifully structured

[@isthatachicken]

I was just about to comment on how cute your hair is😚

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Awww thank you! I love your username by the way~ haha - " is that chicken?" :)

[@isthatachicken]

@@ShauntelAngelica you're so sweet😚 and it's no problem❤

[@Chosennotbroken]

I'm thinking of living in Sweden ,what u think?

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Sure go for it! What specifically about Sweden you like the most?

[@nengibrown2482]

Did you attend the university of gothenburg??

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi, Nengi, yes I did.

[@stormofswords4636]

OMG,you're soo prettyyy 😍😍😍

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Aw thank you Cadela! I'm sure I am not as beautiful as you though! Cheers and have a good day! 💛

[@Pellefication]

I'm ethnical Swedish and living in Sweden. I'm proud of my country, which has shown solidarity and led the way in equity, equality and democracy. But I am ashamed to tell about the hidden afrophobia in Sweden. It was a big shock for me when I realized that. Even adoptees who are Swedish in every way except skin color ..... have been discriminated against in the past and present. Bullying at school, injustice in court, difficult to get a job etc. It's a big disgrace! I just had to get it out of my chest.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Pelle thank you for being transparent. I'm sorry to hear to you and I appreciate your honesty! Thank you for sharing!! ❤

[@misshoneynevercame4832]

Thanks for your honesty. Unfortunately this happens in more European countries.

[@perthyren601]

They stare because of you beauty maybe ;)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you Per :)

[@eguogwuscholastica8202]

What would you advice a black lady with super nice afro natural hair to do before coming there,I plan to come to Sweden and I have been advice to change my hair into dreadlocks,but I really Love my afro hair is so nice,long and healthy..

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Nooo hun, no need to change your hair to dreadlocks. You have several options: You can order your regular hair products via amazon because you won't find them in most if not all hair stores there OR you can adjust your regime to a more self-sustainable organic one, that uses ingredients that are easily accessible and natural.. for example water, coconut oil, olive oil, eggs, avocadoes etc etc. There are many ways around it. No need to change yourself and your hair 💛

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Oh! another thing that helped me was finding a nice wig as a good alternate and safe hairstyle when I feel like not combing my own hair, or if my hair products run out before I buy refills :)

[@eguogwuscholastica8202]

Thanks so much!!,you are the best

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@eguogwuscholastica8202 Aw, thank you too!

[@carlav5607]

If it's relevant, this is my input. People stare, I know I stare as well just can't help myself even when you know it is rude. As a white South african I've had some interesting stares when I move out of the normal "where white people are" areas. Given those stares where an open book, most where curiosity and a few pure hate but still I knew and that was OK. When it's a blanck stare I can see how that can seem more hostile but Sweden is known for there reserved towards strangers =introvert nature and as a introvert myself my normal introvert face is always seen as bitchy. So there's that... PS you have a full of life look and that always pulls in stares just saying

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Mhmm sooo interesting! Thanks Carla for this input! The dynamic in South Africa I find very interesting, and we learnt about it a couple times while I was studying for my anthropology degree. There are several similarities with the dynamic in Jamaica based on what you've mentioned too!... Also! I've alwaysss wanted to visit South Africa too! Beautiful country! Have a good day! Cheers!

[@Frendh]

At least in gothenburg coloured people are common. If you are being stared at in gothenburg it is not because of your skin colour. There are several reasons for people to stare. If you are pretty, if you are wearing noteworthy clothing, you are really tall, really short or anything else that is _uncommon_. If I saw someone with green skin I would obviously stare at the person because I have never seen a person with green skin, because green skin is uncommon. Personally I often "stare" at pretty people. Actually, I stare a lot at people regardless. That is the first thing you can do to learn something about someone else.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Ahh. I see, Thank you for this insight Frendh!! 😊

[@catrinaandrade9814]

I’m pretty sure half the time they are staring at you because you beautiful. Especially if they look away. But the other half of the time it’s probably because they rarely ever seen any other race that wasn’t white.

[@novelette2551]

I wish to comment also .. that i’ve been watching KZbin‘s showing everyday people walking downtown shopping and just going here and there and I’m actually seeing way more brown and Black people then I had imagined! I mean California is pretty much on the on same level… so I’m not understanding why you are being singled out and stared at when it looks to me like there is a substantial number of people of color walking all around Sweden from what I can see

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Interesting observation. I must point out that watching videos of a country and living in a country are two different things. You already know that I'm sure, so I do get what you are trying to say. I was stared at. It is not something I made up nor can it be up for debate as this was my own experience, living in Sweden . As I said in the video, travelling is an individual experience. What one might experience in a country, another might not. Plus the result of an experience, is the total sum of everything. This is why there are people that will be stared at and people who won't. With that said, this difference does not invalidate either one of our experiences.

[@Dragonblom]

I have the same experience as a white .when I go abroad many stare and shouted words that I did not understand

[@ShauntelAngelica]

As we have both experienced it is not a nice feeling. Hopefully the future maybe these experiences will be totally eradicated 💛

[@arthurhellstrom5515]

6:30 Ikr!? It feels like all Swedish teachers do that and it's so annoying

[@ShauntelAngelica]

It's interesting too hahaha

[@mattiasterfelt6759]

Its rude to stare and it would be even more rude to show emotions confirming you are staring. Sorry to hear you were uncomfortable. Hope you still had a good time. Being Jamaican you are totally cool in Sweden... Yeah, we have our issues here too and this is something we always need to work on since we as humans tend to classify people based on looks. Blizzard in Gothenburg? Eh ok... how many flakes? =P Take care!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for understanding Mattias! How many flakes? No one knows hahaha Cheers!

[@lahnhedberg3403]

On the bus I will stare a bit of the ride on someone hair if they got a black cut mostly because my brains goes "That look like a lot of work. Don't that get tedious washing it and redoing the hair. I want that hair style a bit to it looks so good." You don't see a lot of people with dark skin in sweden especially black cuts. I have seen like 3 afros, 2 dreads and 1 braided on black men in my entire life if I remember correctly. Many guys just go for bald cuts I have noticed. Most of the time it fellow women I see these kind of black cuts on and that still something that don't happen every month or it the same person that live in my town with that kind of hair. I think people mostly stare is because they are fascinated and don't see that even monthly. I hopefully think they thought it looked good because your hair is amazing. I will defiantly need to correct myself in my own staring and you did an amazing work on the video.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for sharing your own experience. It's nice reading your comment. I am usually curious about what people are thinking when they stare and I know that many times it just boils down to curiosity. Again, thanks for your insight into your thoughts.

[@tacksomfanson1656]

I'm from Gothenburg. I would assume every person with that blank facial expression you are talking about to be swedish and speak swedish to them, regardless of their skin colour. ;)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for the insight Tacksom!

[@UnlimitedAuthority]

I think staring is something Swedes will do to anyone, it's very common, though I think being black might make it even more prevalent.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for sharing your point of view... much appreciated

[@km7000]

Where else have you lived? Your jamaican accent isn't thick and I'm from nyc

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hahaha :) I've never lived outside of Jamaica for more than a year 😬😊💛. Do you have Jamaican heritage?

[@km7000]

@@ShauntelAngelica no I'm black puerto rican n Trini but I lived next to Jamaicans Haitians and Trinidadian all my life

[@km7000]

@@ShauntelAngelica when I get myself together in America, my second option is to move to Stockholm after the UK 😁

[@chikitabowow]

I think Swedes are hard to read in general, generally we're rather stoic and reserved :P

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thank you for the insight! 😀😊

[@JaneG]

pretty reserved, i'd say :)

[@RoughRider757]

Thank you for your very informative video. The steps you have taken living in Sweden will benefit the next person of color who dares to take the chance of moving to a country with such a huge Caucasian majority population. It can be extremely scary for African Americans when taking that leap. Not every society will embrace us and that can be a challenge. If they got to know us they will learn we are all about LOVE.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Love you 💛 And glad you found this video informative! Sweden is a great country if you ever decide to visit!! 😊

[@ysbryan52]

Lovely this was educational

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Happy you enjoyed it!

[@michaelhansen4225]

Maybe it be reaching here, but maybe they were staring cause they saw a beautiful person comes walking down the street? :) But i think most of the stares you might have experienced, would be just the curiosity from seeing something out of their "norm"?. If i travelled to a small african village who might never or rarely seen white people i would get stares too. Luckily not all stares comes from a negative or racist POV. I'm a pastry white Danish guy living in Sweden and i too get the feeling of being stared at, so i really think most of the times it's just a human nature thing where we just observe our surroundings.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

You are probably very much right!! Thank you for your POV Michael!

[@leobjorklundosteranggymnas5419]

People generally stairs a lot, I don't think it's about your skincolor. People are just unsocial.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Thanks for your insight Leo 💛💛

[@doreodonut]

As an only Asian in the neighbourhood (and I'm also in Sweden) I kinda understand how you feel. I feel like they're just staring at us because we stick out like a sore thumb. But so far I've never received any bad treatment from Swedish people :)

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Yeahhh I feel so too, because we don't blend in, the stares are like automatic... I also never experienced any bad treatment too. So I guess it is just that we stand out because of our physical features etc

[@bastian_anibal]

Shauntel Living in a city in Sweden special in Gothenburg is never a problem for a black or any other immigrant, but try visit where i live in Tjörn, been living here since 89 and still folks have problem with non -swedes! It is also a place where people vote more and more for SwedishDemocrats! More inside small towns is more complicated if you ask me!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Anibal_bastian, Interesting to hear this perspective. And thank you for sharing your insight on the contrast between Gothenburg and the town of Tjörn... It puts things into perspective which I really like.

[@tahiraaa1617]

would you recommend living in sweden? i want to move there after i leave school/college 😁 i chose sweden over germany because germany is a bit more racist ive heard

[@ShauntelAngelica]

I was in Sweden for less than a year but I think Sweden is worth considering! You can search more about where in Sweden exactly meets your needs or if the country is actually ideal for you as a person overall especially when it comes to climate and social culture. 🤣 ahh well interesting thing to consider about Germany! But Germany could also be a good option for you too, it just depends on if it meets your needs. Don't be concerned too much about where is predominately racist when searching for a country to live...although I understand 100 percent why that would be important . However, every individual experiences life in different countries differently no matter how you look phenotypically. There are black individuals who I know, have lived in Germany for over 15 years and are very very happy there and would never want to live elsewhere! Maybe you can feel that way about Germany too! However, If you are mostly concerned about a country with racial diversity,, consider Portugal maybe or Paris in France or some other country or city in Europe (incl Germany) that is more diverse...! If I also knew your top 5 must haves in a country, I could help you better too when it comes to being more specific! Though, I hope you found some of this helpful! Cheers

[@tahiraaa1617]

@@ShauntelAngelica thank you so much for that has helped me so much to pick out where i want to live! thank you 😁

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@tahiraaa1617 You're welcome!!! 😊

[@tahiraaa1617]

@Its_R thank you so much i want to move to köln once i finish school !! your comment has really helped me!!

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@Its_R 🙌🏾

[@mitsysimkelle2325]

Obviously people are going to stare, you’re different. I think in your case they’re curious and is probably just admiring you. Don’t be naive though, there’re people out there that just don’t like to see black peoples around them, and many European have issues with blacks coming straight out of Africa.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Hi Mitsy! I like that you talked about both sides of it! Very interesting and thank you for your comment! I 100 per cent agree with you too that there is some sensitivity amongst some Europeans towards immigration of citizens from African countries. I have read several articles on it. What do you think about the future?

[@mitsysimkelle2325]

Shauntel Angelica - I don’t think things will be better but I think the situations will differ. I believe nothing will be the same after Covid-19. It will be the haves vs the have not ...nations against nations fighting for and about who is the richest and most powerful.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

@@mitsysimkelle2325 You made such a valid point. Definitely, COVID will change the social dynamic ...

[@Palteen87]

@@mitsysimkelle2325 Covid is the project that is intended to stop or significantly slow down globalisation. After Trump's re-election, it's very likely that in some time left-winged politicians will be elected in Europe. Like the former British prime-minister Mr Cameron said "Multicultarism has failed". The new Arab party of Sweden has said that if the Swedish people don't like migrants, they can leave the country.. yes.. leave their home country.. obviously this kind of things will create tensions in society and we already see what is going on in the US... I think by the end of the day everyone will move to the land where they belong to.

[@mitsysimkelle2325]

Maximka - Amen!

[@robotmilker]

Rasism is such a loaded and controversial subject-matter in Sweden; which make any effort to alleviate the social issues that stem from rasism very difficult to entangle. I think Swedes need to accept that there is a fair amount of rasism in Sweden - but admitting that does not mean that we should feel ashamed or bad about ourselves; it's simply saying that we acknowledge that rasism exist in our society and it is having a negative impact on the lives of many of our citizens, but we're willing to do what we can to change things for the better...but like I said; we need to start talking about the subject matter without being so uncomfortable and hampered by the fear of being labeled a rasist (or culturally insensitive) There is nothing wrong with being polite, considerate and not deliberately trying to offend anyone, but some things are tough and uncomfortable to talk about and all of those good intentions end up stalling any good progression.

[@ShauntelAngelica]

Well said, I agree.... division in any sorts, does not do anyone involved any good.

[@galaletsangmilly6751]

I was an exchange student at Jönköping university in 2017... Nd I must say my experience wasn’t that great, it was hard to make friends, I felt lyk nobody wanted to be friends with me because I was black , sometimes I would skip class because it got so lonely, everybody else was getting along and had lil groups of friends in class but as for me , idk really... I did not enjoy Sweden at all. I just felt lyk there’s so much racism, I nearly fell into depression 😌

[@ShauntelAngelica]

😭 I'm so sorry to hear that, I feel it for you!!! 💛💛💛Very real !!! And it also goes to show that everyone has their own unique experience when travelling. I didn't have much problems making friends, but I can definitely see how it is very possible😭 Would you ever visit Sweden again , another city just to see if your experience would be different??

[@galaletsangmilly6751]

@@ShauntelAngelica I’d love to visit Gothenburg Nd Stockholm. I heard there’s a bit of black ppl in those areas so maybe I’ll feel more relaxed Nd enjoy myslf

[@shanicejones8332]

Hii just noticed u have a Tswana Surname I'll be moving in Sweden I'd love to keep in touch