I have a close friend of mine who happens to be white and tends to be attracted to black men. It is just her preference and she has constantly tried to date white men but it tends to not work out between them.
Recently, she found a phenomenal man, who happens to be black, and is afraid to bring him around her family. Her family happens to be what I would call borderline prejudice. The reason I say borderline is because she dated a half white/half black man for several years and they opened their heart to him and he really treated her badly. Since that relationship ended in a bad breakup, their attitude again appears to end in hate.
I did not grow up in a prejudice household nor did I have strong feelings towards any race growing up. Moving to another State and another town (predominately white), it has certainly opened my eyes to the prejudice that happens to be the norm for some towns.
I met her new boyfriend and he is great. He treats her well, is an over-achiever and simply is a great guy. Does anyone have any suggestions? There is a great deal of animosity towards black people in this family for some reason and she really needs help.
With the diversity of our world today, I am dumbfounded about some people’s perceptions of race and since my mind does not work that way, I cannot seem to muster an idea to help her. Posing this question to the community may help her in some way to breach the gap of race.
Thanks for your help.
All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.
Add a Comment2 Comments
The best answer is time. My cousin (white) has been married to her black husband for years and they have two adorable twin boys.
However, when they were dating her parents would not accept him in their lives. It took years before they realized he wasn't going anywhere and they finally accepted their daughter was happy. With the blessing of both families, the couple eventually wed. They realized, that black, white, or green, how great this man really is.
Now, years later, her sister has married a terrific black man as well. Fortunately for her, my aunt and uncle welcomed him into their lives with little or no reservations.
While it may take time, if she is dedicated to her relationship and the man is truly the one for her, they may finally accept him into their lives.
June 15, 2009 - 12:39pmThis Comment
Sunlight is the best disinfectant - I would recommend she make sure her family gets exposed to him in some safe situations and give them the chance to see how great he is.
June 15, 2009 - 9:27amThis Comment