By Lois Otse Adams
International Marriage and Relationship have become acknowledged and accepted by the world. But from the most part, relationships between races are different than the relationships between people of the same race.
There are however, certain issues as faith, culture and traditions that can cause stress and distress in the relationship.
About 80% or more people have problem with mixed race relationship, thus, proving that people are predominantly overcoming racial stereotype. Many high Schools and Colleges Students abroad are dating interracially, which is helping to increase awareness of mixed race relationship in Africa. It is still frowned upon in some areas and Countries.
In some parts of Africa, if a black Woman marries or dates a white guy they look at it as Prostitution.
Regrettably, many of these relationships go disregarded, because the Couples feel that their friends and families will not approve mainly in Africa, like I mentioned above.
Secret interracial relationship often accur because the parents are strict and forbid or discourage dating outside ones culture. Parents are often the pepetrators of stereotype and racism. Many parents force their children to date within their Culture, in order to avoid betraying their own cultural roots.
Victorously relationship often result in marriages, and the wedding plans themselves can be a major struggle, some couples choose to avoid cultural traditions altogether, some weddings in order to celebrate both traditions properly, and some try to compromise by cultural customs and creating their own. When preparing for interracial wedding, many of the parents feel that their cultural traditions are being denied and can cause problem. Including the families in the decision making process is a great way to keep everyone communicating and feeling happy.
Once married, mixed race couple face more decision concerning holiday traditions, religious worship and Children. It is important to talk about where holiday will take place and which traditions they will choose to worship either. Seperately or they will find a different faith that suits them both.
Issues concerning Children, and how they will be raised both in faith and culture are also major concern for mixed race Parents. The mixed race Children should almost be thought how to deal with racism.
Almost all interracial families encounter racism in some shapes or forms. Many of these families will benefit from dealing with tough problems, like racism will experience impoverished family strenght and problem solving ability.
While there are many issues faced by those in interracial relationship, the friendships and romances are often meaningful and gratifying.
Do not consider boudaries when searching, date and marry the one you love to spend the rest of your life with.
First Published in 2009
