Picture walking down the street holding hands with your partner, only to face lingering stares, hushed comments, and whispers about your relationship. This is a common experience for many in mixed-race marriages, myself included. Today, I invite you to see things from my perspective as I share my story alongside my partner.
Loving Day marks the Supreme Court’s decision to end anti-miscegenation laws in 16 U.S. states. This historic case involved Mildred Jeter, who was Black and Indigenous, and Richard Loving, who was White. They fought against societal discrimination to marry, leading to legal changes that allowed interracial couples like me and my husband, who got married in 2014, to thrive.
Despite legal victories such as Loving v. Virginia in 1967, the journey for mixed-race couples like us is still filled with disapproval and misunderstandings.
Following in the footsteps of the Lovings should have normalized our relationship, but society’s reactions indicate otherwise.
Interracial couples like us often encounter subtle disapproval through prolonged stares, judgmental whispers, and raised eyebrows, reminding us of societal biases.
Show love and acceptance to mixed-race couples whenever you come across them.
When you feel puzzled or disapproving of mixed-race marriages:
Reflect on the biases that might influence your reactions and challenge yourself to embrace all forms of love.
My marriage is not something you have to “understand”
As a mixed-race couple, our bond should not be scrutinized or questioned by others—it thrives on love and connection.
You can readily support couples in mixed-race relationships
Despite legal progress, mixed-race couples still face societal challenges. We encourage you to acknowledge and celebrate love in all its diverse forms without bias or judgment. Use knowledge and connection to break down existing prejudices.
- Examine your discomfort with mixed-race couples and explore the underlying reasons for these feelings.
- Engage in open conversations with supportive individuals to gain new perspectives and confront biases.
- Take the time to understand and value mixed-race couples for who they are as individuals and as partners.
- Celebrate love regardless of outward appearances or societal norms.
