Panel discusses interracial dating
By KRISTEN FITZGERALD
News Writer
Mirella Riley's parents didn't want her to date outside of her Mexican race.
So, during her freshman year, when she began dating her black boyfriend — now her husband —problems arose.
"My family had problems with the relationship because we are a traditional Mexican family," said Riley, a 1994 Notre Dame graduate who works in the Alumni office. "They didn't like anything that strayed from a traditional Mexican family."
Panel members at the dinner and discussion on interracial dating hosted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs Wednesday evening expressed similar stories.
A group of almost 40 people, including interracial couples, singles who had previous interracial relationships and interested students joined in the discussion. Interracial couples told about their encounters with their parents, friends, and the public and about their own feelings about interracial dating.
They also offered reasons why their loving parents would react negatively to interracial dating. They said reasons could stem from upbringing or a general feeling of prejudice.
Sophomore Stephanie Nemeth, a cacasion, was concerned when her parents did not accept her black boyfriend.
Riley identified with Nemeth.
"Being caught choosing between your boyfriend or girlfriend and your family is a terrible situation to be in," Riley said.
Many couples stated, however, that coming to terms with their families was easier than they thought it would be. Most stated that their families were skeptical at first, but that their fears were eased as time went on.
The group spoke about the challenges presented not only because of the racial differences, but also because of cultural differences. Trying new foods and learning new languages were suggestions the panel offered as a way to help make uncomfortable parents or friends more understanding.
At the conclusion, audience members were asked to fill out a form, which would set them up with people of other races for a date. All those who participated are invited to another discussion next month to talk about the date.
All News Stories for Thursday, February 3, 2000
