[Jacqui]

I’m a native Floridian (a rare thing, indeed) and, yes, Florida is in the South. While I have witnessed hostility directed at Northerners in the South, it is not as prevalant as you mentioned. I believe the predominant reason why this happens is because many ‘transplants’ seldom miss an opportunity to tell a Southerner how much better it is up North – culture, food, jobs, driving, etc. I hesitate to say it is connected to class, since transplants come from virtually every socioeconomic level. More affluent people may come to the south seeking a better climate or a job promotion, others are looking for a more affordable retirement, while most are just middle class folks moving to advance their career. If a child pulls a dog’s tail and the dog growls at the child, is the dog to blame? How would you feel if you suddenly were outnumbered in your hometown by people who critized your way of life? We are often quick to advise travelers to respect the customs of foreign countries, but when we travel within our own country some folks automatically assume that different customs must be a result of social class differences that are lower than the visitors’ home. Southerners are known to be fiesty defenders of their beliefs – unfortunately, some may interpret this as a sign of a lack of self esteem. I have yet to meet a true Southerner who feels inferior because of their accents and socioeconomic class. We are proud of who we are. Just remember – when in the Bible Belt, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

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Name : Jacqui, Gender : F, Sexual Orientation : Straight, Race : White/Caucasian, Religion : Baptist, Age : 30, City : Tampa, State : FL, Country : United States, Education level : 4 Years of College, Social class : Middle class, 

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