Article: It is important to share how you feel about your parents’ perspective.  If your parents disapprove of interracial dating, let them know that you wish they were more open-minded.  Some parents may have legitimate concerns about the cultural compatibility of you and your partner.  Listen closely to what your parents have to say and answer thoughtfully. Ensure your parents that you have and will continue to think about their point of view.  Explain to them, “Thank you for your opinion.  I appreciate your honesty and I will carefully consider what you’ve said.” Remind them that every relationship has challenges, and that you and your partner love each other and are willing to work through any issues that arise. Remind racist parents of all the good things about your partner.  Say, for instance, “I care deeply for my partner.  Their race does not define them.  I’m sorry you can’t see that.” Avoid emotional outbursts.  It’s okay to be angry or frustrated if your parents are unwilling to accept you dating outside your race.  However, it is important to keep the discourse civil.  Be patient and avoid yelling, name-calling, and violence.  If you feel your temper rising, breathe in slowly through your nose for three seconds, then exhale through your mouth for five seconds.  This simple breathing exercise will help you relax. Sometimes it’s best to be patient and allow your parents time to process the information that you’re dating outside your race.  Excuse yourself or end the conversation politely if you feel it is not productive.  You can always come back to the topic with your parents later.  Say, “I’m going to excuse myself from this conversation for the moment.  Perhaps we can resume at a later time.” Your parents might ask, “What will people think about me if you’re in an interracial relationship?”  They might also suggest that you should be dating within your own race, or that you’re doing something wrong by dating someone of another race.  Stand up against these insinuations and old-fashioned attitudes by reminding them that there are many wonderful people of all races.  Explain that the important thing to do when looking for a partner is identifying how the person acts and treats you.  For instance, you could say, “I know and love my partner, and they treat me well.  These things are important.  My partner’s race is not.” Don’t let your parents use other people’s attitudes (or their own) to make you feel guilty about your relationship.  If they are worried that their friends or neighbors will shame them because of your dating preferences, suggest that they ditch those friends. Assure your parents that your interracial relationship is not intended to hurt them, and is not an act of rebellion.  Say, “My relationship is only intended to enrich my life and the life of my partner.  It is not meant as a slight against you.”

What is a summary?
Respond to your parents. Stay calm. Don’t let your family make you feel guilty.