Pia Kjærsgaard’s recent visit to Ishøj has ignited a debate about the town’s Danish identity, with Kjærsgaard claiming it resembles Pakistan more than Denmark. Her comments have drawn criticism from residents like Carsten Seeger, who defends Ishøj as a part of Denmark, albeit one with a less affluent population.

Seeger, a resident of Ishøj for six months, argues that Kjærsgaard’s assessment is a superficial judgment made after only a few hours in the town. He points out that while Ishøj may not represent the upper-class Denmark of Copenhagen K and Gentofte, it is still undeniably Danish.

Drawing from his own experience of moving to Bornholm in 1970, Seeger recounts how he learned to appreciate a different community and shed his “Østerbro arrogance”. He emphasizes the friendliness and helpfulness of his neighbors and fellow commuters in Ishøj, regardless of their background.

Seeger further highlights the diverse range of shops and cultural institutions in Ishøj, from international supermarkets like Bilka to the Arken museum of modern art. He suggests that politicians like Kjærsgaard could benefit from living in Ishøj to better understand and contribute to Danish society in the modern era. Seeger also jokes that housing in Ishøj is more affordable.

In a separate letter, Per Aasmul from Holte expresses hope that the delayed reconstruction of the “Krudten” ammunition factory in Elling is due to the construction of underground facilities across the country, protecting them from potential Russian attacks.