A: I’ve been in your shoes. Dating someone of a different race can still bring out the ugly side of people. I chalk it up to ignorance, but I believe fear also plays a part.
I won’t get preachy on you, but you first need to put color aside. Is the guy nice? Does he treat you with respect? Do you have a lot in common? If he’s a good guy, go for it.
Apart from skin color, you may be in a situation where there are cultural or religious differences. Respect his and he should respect yours. Learn about each other’s beliefs (that’s not only religion). Find the similarities and celebrate them.
In my experience, the tough part of interracial dating comes down to people outside the relationship. I’m black and my husband is white. We’ve had bigoted comments tossed at us during our marriage. Yet for every harsh word or hostile stare, there have been more people who didn’t care that we’re a mixed raced couple. We’re simply two people who fell in love (after my now-husband was brave enough to ask me out; he’s such a lovable geek).
I say accept his offer and see where it leads. Whatever happens, remember the two of you are what’s important. Love is colorblind.
~ Tricia Skinner, author of Angel Bait
