How to Ask Out Someone of a Different Race

Interracial dating is still a controversial issue in some areas of the country. You may not care what society says of your love interests, and you have every right to date who you want to, regardless of racial stereotypes. But keep in mind that different cultures have different expectations and if you want your date to be successful, then start out on the right foot.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Learn as much as you can about the background of your potential date. While you are getting to know the person, before you ask for a date, find out about his or her family of origin. A little history can give you some insights into the racial culture your intended grew up in and what is expected of you.
2. Let go of stereotypes you may be harboring. While someone may look different, you may have more in common than you realize and the racial components of your relationship may turn out to be irrelevant.
3. Consider the town in which you live and how you will be treated on the date. If there is a lot of racial prejudice in your area, ask your date to travel to a nearby town for the first date so you might get more comfortable with the person before dealing with your hometown biases.
4. Leave your options open. While discussing going out, leave some wiggle room for your potential date to offer suggestions of where you might go or how things are done in his or her own culture or society.
5. Check your motives. If you are merely interested in experimenting because of stereotypes you've heard about the other race, then perhaps you should avoid asking for the date so you don't hurt anyone's feelings. If you truly are attracted to the person and not society's taboo, then go for it.
6. Talk to friends in interracial relationships or visit some of the websites below for some tips on how to deal with the pressures you might receive from family or the community.