Stigmas, reality differ for diverse relationships

Stigmas associated with interracial, interfaith, intertribal and intercultural relationships are still a concern in today’s society, students said Tuesday.

Nine panelists answered questions on their dating experiences at the Unrestricted program, sponsored by the African Student Union.

“It had a lot to do with culture and cultural pride to stay within your race,” said junior Akin Adebowale on why his parents may disapprove of him dating a non-African.

Several panelists expressed their parents’ initial or continued disapproval of dating a person outside of their tribe, culture or race.

Senior Oksana Rzajeva is a Russian woman dating a black man. She said her parents initially disapproved of their relationship, but that they had grown to love senior Dave Edwards and were moving toward accepting and changing their family views on interracial relationships.

Panelists said religious and spiritual beliefs and the importance of conversion in marriage are also significant to relationships.

Oluseun Ajayi, a senior from Atlanta, said a difference in commitment to Christianity led to him and his girlfriend to end their relationship.

Ajayi, a Nigerian African-American, is following the traditions of his tribe in Nigeria as well as Christianity.

The panelists said stereotypes and misconceptions about African men and women are still prevalent.

Senior Stacie Walker said a member of her church was concerned after seeing her Kenyan boyfriend, Joseph Abdallah, because of the stereotype of dominant African men. Abdallah was asked if he hit Walker.

Initially, “I was angry,” Walker said. “I had to come to understand that that is her mentality based on her experiences and the images that come from the media, but I know that wasn’t a reality for my relationship.”

Abdallah, a senior from Lilburn and president of the African Student Union, said part of the discussion was devoted to dispelling misconceptions that African men are too dominant.

The group then debated the positives and negatives of overprotective parents who dictated their children’s relationships.

The panelists said parents should trust how they raise their children.