Interracial Dating

Interracial dating has received much attention throughout American history. Once outlawed based on the history of slavery and the notion of preserving the purity of one's race, interracial dating has increasingly become acceptable and inevitable. Though many people still prefer to marry within their own ethnicity, there has been a significant rise in interracial relationships and marriages throughout the years.

Interracial dating can be a rewarding experience, provided both parties enter the relationship for the right reasons. If you truly are open to different people and experiences, then you must be willing not only to try and understand the other culture, but also to recognize the differences. People who say they do not see color are contributing to the problem by ignoring cultural identities. It is necessary to acknowledge and embrace differences in everyone. The key is to practice tolerance and to free your mind of prejudice in getting to know someone. Recognizing and celebrating differences between cultures is a wonderful way to champion diversity and help eradicate racism from the world, one step at a time.

Many people focus on black-white relations as the only interracial component, but there are many different ethnicities participating in interracial dating practices. Asians, Caucasians, Latinos and blacks all make up the diversity of the United States. Many relationships exist across this realm.

The opposition to black and white interracial relationships stems from slavery and its aftermath. Some people see this type of connection as particularly hurtful based on the history of slavery in the United States. If one can look past this issue and truly get to know and understand the pain behind it, a fulfilling relationship is attainable.

Family opposition to interracial dating is a strong issue. Some cultures oppose interracial dating because their belief systems are grounded in tradition and the perpetuation of religion. For example, traditional East Indian parents from a strict Hindu culture may not give their blessing to their daughter growing up in America who decides to bring home her Roman Catholic Mexican boyfriend. These situations should be dealt with through education, awareness and getting to know someone on a case-by-case basis.

Prejudice exists across the globe because people judge an entire culture and race based on its differences from their own lifestyle and beliefs. The media also has historically portrayed minorities in a negative light, reinforcing stereotypes impacting reactions to interracial dating.

Dos and Don'ts of Interracial Dating

DO-
- Open yourself up to the possibility of finding love across ethnic boundaries.
- Accept and learn from each other.
- Make an honest effort to identify and understand cultural differences.
- Seek to increase education and awareness.
- Realize not everyone will be an advocate of your relationship. Try to understand the issues and learn more about yourself through the experience.

DON'T-
- Make your partner seem exotic.
- Date outside your race as a form of rebellion against your parents or society.
- Focus on negative reactions from others.
- Dismiss your partner's feelings and experiences based on their race.

America is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, so it is fitting interracial relationships are on the rise. Despite possibly encountering opposition from family and society, interracial dating can be a wonderful, fulfilling experience transcending ethnic boundaries. Both parties should be willing to acknowledge and celebrate the other person's culture and background. As well as taking a small step in eliminating societal prejudice and expanding your dating pool, you just may find love if you dare to venture outside of your comfort zone.