I admit I knew nothing, niente, nada, about immigration when I joined VJ back in 2019. Whatever I know now, I learned it here. VJ is an invaluable source of first hand information.
And there are frequent posters that are literally an open book, and are always willing to help. At least that’s my experience.
I can also see why some of their attitudes might be perceived as “rude”, for example when they say that “they’re out”. But I think that announcing that you’re leaving a debate is actually more polite than just leaving.
Also, we need to look at both sides of the story. Usually, when they are out it is because OP has been told repeatedly what their issue is, but OP doesn’t want to see it. That being said, making fun of someone or being condescending about language mistakes is completely unacceptable and non- contributory.
In addition, this is a website where people from very different cultures post. And manners and politeness can be different from one culture to another. Therefore, a poster might genuinely think that their manners are polite, but the reader might perceive them different.
And mods do take action almost immediately. The thing is, they have their own lives too and cannot/ shouldn’t be here to monitor 24/7. I believe we are all adults here and can actually “filter” replies and decide which one is helpful and which one is not.
I’ve been on both sides: I have felt offended by the tone someone used with me, and I’ve also had people report my comments. I’m still here, because I see VJ as “the Bible” of first hand experience with immigration!
Founder Steve: hi!!! Thank you for this wonderful resource.
Is there any chance we could have an app?