Asked what the country may look like with the increasing acceptance of mixed-race marriages, Henry Louis Gates Jr. responded: [1]
Indeed Americans have become more open in embracing interracial marriages of late. A recent Pew Research Center survey says that, in fact, more than one in five American adults have a close relative who is married to someone of another race. Moreover, most in the younger set (18-to-29 year olds) accept the concept of interracial dating and marriage. [2]
Visiting a chef/restaurateur friend running a Valentine’s dinner special, I noticed a proud gleam in the young faces of a mixed couple as they walked in and looked at each other while waiting to be escorted to their table. Yes, they evidently sparkled of the romance fluttering between them. But also they shone of peace and comfort, knowing that the other couples there will not cast a judging eye on them.
[2] Pew Research Center
I’m looking forward to the time when we all look like Polynesians.
***
Indeed Americans have become more open in embracing interracial marriages of late. A recent Pew Research Center survey says that, in fact, more than one in five American adults have a close relative who is married to someone of another race. Moreover, most in the younger set (18-to-29 year olds) accept the concept of interracial dating and marriage. [2]
***
But, wait, I noticed a gay couple also partaking of the celebration. They seem to be quite relaxed and enjoying the evening as well. Were there harsh looks from anyone? I couldn’t tell. (At least they’re not in Malawi. Who knows someday, Mr. Gates, Polynesia?)
[1] Deborah Solomon, “Questions for Henry Louis Gates Jr.: After the Beer Summit”, The New York Times Magazine, Feb. 14, 2010[2] Pew Research Center
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