Us and canada border?

Question

Was going to Mewport Vermont, US customs officer very rude called my passenger Juan, even though he had our papers and knew our names. My French Canadian passenger couldn't understand the orders the guard barked out at him causing us a lot of stress, I tried to translate and was told to shut up, finally ended up having to translate anyway, was accused of wanting to go to the US to work, we were going to Newport to record a talk on the founding fathers of the US.

I explained that I was a volunteer and not going to the states to work, just record a talk given by an historian, was told that he didn't care about my life story and again accused me of being paid, when I insisted not he yelled at me demanding to know how I live, I told him that I volunteer but am retired and on pension, was finally dismissed with a sneer and a barked out order to 'Get Going'.

I didn't realize that the protection of the US depended on the rudeness of its' border guards. If they don't demonstrate respect for the citizens of a Country doesn't it stand to reason that they extend that attitude Canada itself.

Very rude and aggressive reception at the border in spite of the fact that my passenger and I are both middle aged, professionals at least 4 generation Canadian citizens with passports

Answer 1

Yeah, well we have to be "rude" as you put it. You see, funny thing -- immigrants trying to smuggle their families and pounds of cocaine into the country warrants a tough and stressful attitude from the border guards who have to constantly be on the lookout for them.

Plus it kinda puts you in that mood, ya know?

Answer 2

So what was your question?

Answer 3

It is a shame that you had to endure that.  I live on the Windsor, Ontario-Detroit, Michigan border and cross a couple of times a month.  Most times I have no problem, but every once in a while I get someone with an attitude.  I feel I have to endure it, because if you give them a hard time, you (and your car) will be forever flagged and pulled over for further questioning.  It is a shame that someone in that position has power over you and can treat you like a second-class citizen, but it is almost like you have no choice but to just sit and take it.  It's not right.