10 Massively Stupid Things People Say About Interracial Dating
These statements are real, and they are ridiculous. SMH.
getty Q: What's the best thing to say to someone who's in an interracial relationship?
A: Nothing that you wouldn't say to someone who's dating within their race.
You'd think it would be obvious, but alas, people can say some pretty stupid things when it comes to interracial dating and relationships. Read on for some common things people hear when they're in an interracial relationship (that they really could do without):
1. What do your parents think?!
"'Have you always had a thing for Asian (or black, etc.) men?' 'What do your parents think?' 'Are you worried how the kids will look?'" — Dana, 54
2. Oh, I used to have a black boyfriend once...
"One thing I get a lot of is women who want to tell me all about the black boyfriend they had in college whom their parents made them break up with. Another thing we both get is, 'You must be so proud of Barack Obama!' Why? He's not OUR bi-racial child." — Alina, 44
3. Why don't you marry a nice Latina who will cook for you?
"I'd get things like, 'So, you're dating a white guy because a black guy couldn't handle you as a strong women?' Uh, thank you, but no. From his Hispanic side of the family, they'd say, 'Why don't you just settle down with a nice Latina girl who will cook for you?' So, you're saying I can't cook?" — Jasmyn, 25
4. I guess you like that German sausage, right? *wink*
5. You must be so brave!
"My hubby and I have been married for fourteen years — he's black and I'm white. There are many things we hear (and see) from others regarding our interracial relationship, but the thing I hear most and would like to change is, 'You are so brave to go out into the world together. Good for you!' I know that it's meant as support and a compliment, but I do wish it wasn't 'brave.' What else are we to do? Hide away because we're different? No thanks!" — Tsara, 39
6. I've gotta get me one of those!
7. Are you the nanny?
8. They pull out the Orange Is The New Black "chocolate and vanilla swirl" reference.
9. Is the sex different?
10. Isn't it bad for your kids?
"I am in an interracial couple, and my aunt once told me that she is against interracial couples because their children 'don't know what they are.'" — Michelle, 26
Danielle Page is the founder of ThisIsQuarterLife.com, a blog dedicated to making your mid20s easier to navigate. Danielle’s work has been featured on Woman’s Day, Your Tango, Mandatory, Matador Network, The New York Times, Thought Catalog and the Huffington Post. She’s a proud cat mom of one.