I am a Filipina-Dutch single parent. Was married to a Dutch national. I lived in the Netherlands for 9 years now.

I was told to reintegrate into the labour market despite the fact that i have 2 little children (8 & 3 years old, resp.) I've made countless job applications, but unfortunately of no success. I've finished a bachelor's degree in my country of origin (Philippines). I've had various work experiences in the past, but since i've been out of the business for so many years, i know it will be tough for me to compete in the labour market these days. Otherwise, i need to refresh and update my CV for that matter.

During an interview at a job placement agency, i was told that it will be difficult for me to find even a low-key office job. Major issue: my accent. Then it got into me. What is the problem with accent? I speak fluent Dutch, but of course you cannot expect a perfect Dutch accent from a foreigner. I guess there are those who speak like real Dutch, but have lived here like forever already.

I thought, if some government leaders cannot even deliver a perfect English speech, while there are those who even needs a translator to interpret his/her speech, this "accent" issue really bothers me.

Is this racism? I thought, it is. Why? Because why does it have to be a barrier to get a white-collared job? I was even given the option to either work in the factory and or work as a janitress or do household chores at the care-homes for the elderly.

By the way, I've had my bachelor's diploma finally translated and compared with the Dutch system. It's equivalent is second year higher education (college) level here. They have their own standards for foreign diploma's. However, being offered a job way way too low beyond my level, is humialiating for me.

It was indeed a humiliating moment for me to hear all these. Believe me, i almost cried for self-pity while talking to this Dutch recruiter. I wonder if she's ever exposed to human rights issues herself. I am not deeply exposed to human rights issues myself, but i well know that i have the right to be respected ( in this case, my educational achievements) as an individual, regardless of my background.

I've had several experiences on racism here in the Netherlands. Unfortunately, it has even escalated to a more serious level nowadays. I wonder what we citizens can do to sanction those we felt have humiliated us in any means.

I am a law-abiding citizen. I have integrated myself in this society and trying my best to live a worthy life. I speak the language fluently and can communicate in a good manner. What does perfect pronunciation of the Dutch language got to do with office work? First issue i've encountered during my early years here was " language barrier". Now, it's the "accent".

Here in the Netherlands, "reintegration" in the labour market is one big issue these days. Yes, everybody must get back to work. Even those single parents (receiving government support) who have children younger than 5 years old.

What does it take to meet this? Regardless of your situation, you'll have to find a job even if it's way beyond your level. Besides, what is the problem with someone having a bachelor's degree removing weeds in the park? Failure to get your desired job ( for me, because of my accent) , then unfortunately you will have to accept any job offered to you. Otherwise, you can forget your government support.

I would say, everybody should be given a good option and space to do so. I don't aim to get a high-key position for now. It's just that i think Dutch foreigners who are well-educated, shouldn't be exploited and denied of their rights to a good labour of their choice.

I am still pursuing to find a good-paying job. It's indeed tough. I've approached some organizations to work as a volunteer instead. This is accepted by the Dutch social affairs as a "work experience", but for only a maximum period of 6 months. I was lucky to have been accepted in a Philippine women's foundation here in the Netherlands.

However, i wonder if i will be able to find a paid job someday at a Dutch entity, without having my "accent" considered as a big deal.