ive gotten that reaction many a time when I’ve walked into a unfamiliar place filled with either black hatters, non jews and everyone in between. what they all had in common was that they were STRANGERS. and sometimes, strangers wont come right over or make eye contact because they are not sure what your reaction will be. they don’t know you and unfamiliar territory is scary. so they go the easy way out and try not to acknowledge your presence. they think if they don’t look at you it means you will think that they didn’t see you. which, unfortunately is not the case.
yes it is rude. yes it is uncomfortable for you. but its a natural reaction. very infrequently are there warm, outgoing people who come over and make you feel welcome.
I hate to say it, but this world is just filled with socially awkward people. and black hatters are not immune.