Why should WE follow their customs? Why isn’t he told Americans will think you are a homo if you try to kiss a man? Why isn’t the Queen of England told Americans do not follow court protocol?
Why are we always the ones having to give in. If we admit they are all lesser peoples, then cool. That would be like not scaring a savage. But if we do it out of respect, that’s wrong unless they show us the same deference and respect.
I guess it comes from the times we all acted like ladies and gentlemen and tried to follow the protocols of other countries, while in them. And officials from other countries usually tried to do the same.
Obama has always been the oddball, apologizing, bowing and scraping to others and it hasn’t gained him a speck of respect. I agree with you about the respect being a two way thing.
Because they care if we follow their protocol and decorum.
We don’t care if they follow ours. That is the distinction.
The difference is if Obama met the Queen of England and started spouting off Ebonics, she would likely walk out of the room.