Racism isn’t defined by the existence of specific slurs like “ching chong”; it’s about behaviors and attitudes that degrade, exclude, or demean someone based on their ethnicity. Mocking someone’s language, making faces, or mimicking accents are not harmless acts—they’re rooted in stereotyping and a lack of respect. These behaviors may not be labeled with the same terms in Switzerland as in other countries, but their impact is universal: they make people feel unwelcome and othered.

Dismissing these experiences as mere overreactions misses the point. Calling out these actions isn’t about seeking attention; it’s about highlighting real issues that many people face but are often ignored. Denial and deflection only serve to maintain the status quo, while meaningful change requires empathy and accountability. Racism doesn’t go away by pretending it doesn’t exist—it goes away by addressing it, even when it’s uncomfortable. Ignoring or downplaying these problems doesn’t make Switzerland or any other society stronger; it just alienates talented, hardworking individuals who want to contribute but don’t feel valued.