I have been learning Spanish for a couple of years and am low-mid intermediate. I've read numerous articles/posts saying don't be afraid to go out and speak the language with others. I live in Los Angeles County, where many people speak it. However when I try, I get shot down. They have said, "Next time, just speak English", or "What?"(rudely), or "I think we both speak English better. Let's do that instead."

Do they think that I am being ridiculous, or have no business learning their mother tongue? Is there pride, or a cultural issue that I am unaware of? How good do I have to get before I'm accepted? Maybe my approach has been wrong because usually I just start speaking it and I never realized there would be an issue with that. When people aren't fluent in English and talk to me anyway, I feel proud of them that they care enough to learn my language. Why isn't it the same the other way around? This has made me afraid to go out there and keep trying.