Correction: Loving v. Virginia did not "allow" interracial couples to marry; it recognized an existing right, and invalidated laws violating it. No rights were manufactured in this case, but immoral and unconstitutional laws were struck down.
37
White slave owners were having children with their slaves but when bi-racial couples were trying to make it legal , the government had a gut to say that it was illegal? But wait , those government people were all slave owners( or formers , or defendants of slave owners ) !!! Hypocrite.
14
The Watsons are the kind of people that make America great.
67
As a bi-racial person born in the 1950's, I can't say that there have been no obstacles. But we all have crosses to bear.
However, as more and more families like the Watsons appear, an increasing percentage of the population is related to persons of another race. As relatives, it is harder to see people as anything other than individuals.
So at times when racism and xenophobia seem impenetrable, I try to remember this biological fact: racists are on the losing side of history.
However, as more and more families like the Watsons appear, an increasing percentage of the population is related to persons of another race. As relatives, it is harder to see people as anything other than individuals.
So at times when racism and xenophobia seem impenetrable, I try to remember this biological fact: racists are on the losing side of history.
58
The horrible racial reaction way too many whites had to President Obama showed our country has a long way to go. Few were fooled into thinking the "Obama is a Muslim" was anything but a coded message based in racial hatred.
The first interracial relationship I had was during my time in Georgia in the late 1980's while I was in the Army, and I remember the harsh stares, the aggressive body language, the negative facial expressions and such from some people. What the Watsons faced was far worse by a huge factor that we can only wonder at. What surprised me was the harsh reactions of many African-American men to the sight of an African-American Woman and a White Man, while other African-American men and women were not only happy about it, but celebrated it.
In this crazy world my advice to anyone is that if you find love- follow it and embrace it. Nobody else can live your life for you. Do not let haters rob you of your joy, of your love and of your happiness. Live your life, love who you want and let the chips fall where they may.
The first interracial relationship I had was during my time in Georgia in the late 1980's while I was in the Army, and I remember the harsh stares, the aggressive body language, the negative facial expressions and such from some people. What the Watsons faced was far worse by a huge factor that we can only wonder at. What surprised me was the harsh reactions of many African-American men to the sight of an African-American Woman and a White Man, while other African-American men and women were not only happy about it, but celebrated it.
In this crazy world my advice to anyone is that if you find love- follow it and embrace it. Nobody else can live your life for you. Do not let haters rob you of your joy, of your love and of your happiness. Live your life, love who you want and let the chips fall where they may.
67
While I admit some had a racial bias, far more disagreed with his plans for this country, his massive arrogance, and his lack of ability. And after all he had a very white mother and a somewhat white upbringing.
2
I think that what David was talking about was specifically the spewing of racially motivated hatred toward Obama during the 2008 election and following 8 years of presidency, not his political capabilities which are a separate discussion entirely.
Also what is the difference between a white mother and a very white mother? Just so I know how to categorize my own mother and friends' mothers correctly.
Also what is the difference between a white mother and a very white mother? Just so I know how to categorize my own mother and friends' mothers correctly.
61
Stories like this need to go viral.
15
Love can transcend our need for categories.
Here 1 plus 1 can exceed 2.
Here 1 plus 1 can exceed 2.
12
This story is inspirational and congrats to the couple for reaching a marriage milestone.
I find that interracial dating is fraught with landmines. Recently, I met a White man who was interested in me. We talked several times and had similar taste in books. At some point, politics came up and he admitted that he had voted for Trump. I asked him if he felt comfortable with that decision given the nature of Trump's campaign (e.g., racism, misogyny) and the accelerated hate crimes after his election. He told me that those things didn't matter to him. I tried to explain that those things mattered to me because I was a Black woman. I couldn't see myself dating him when he seemed so blind to the experiences of non-Whites and I expressed that to him. He continued to assert that his Trump support shouldn't matter.
Needless to say, we are no longer in contact but instances like these are why interracial dating is not the panacea for improved race relations.
I find that interracial dating is fraught with landmines. Recently, I met a White man who was interested in me. We talked several times and had similar taste in books. At some point, politics came up and he admitted that he had voted for Trump. I asked him if he felt comfortable with that decision given the nature of Trump's campaign (e.g., racism, misogyny) and the accelerated hate crimes after his election. He told me that those things didn't matter to him. I tried to explain that those things mattered to me because I was a Black woman. I couldn't see myself dating him when he seemed so blind to the experiences of non-Whites and I expressed that to him. He continued to assert that his Trump support shouldn't matter.
Needless to say, we are no longer in contact but instances like these are why interracial dating is not the panacea for improved race relations.
64
Thanks for your comment, professor. I know this will sound odd, coming from a white woman, but I'm also in the dating world and have a big fear of learning who most of these middle aged white men voted for. I cannot tolerate it either, the indifference to racism, misogyny. I'm white, and white men hold so little interest for me these days. Ninety percent of the time, on their online dating profiles, they actually fill out the race section for what they're looking for - instead of just leaving it open, which I thought was normal. No, these men check the "white/caucasian" box, and that's it. I usually get a queasy feeling in my stomach. These men actually repel me. Perhaps it's one of the reasons I'm single.
16
Our white bread son married a Korean woman who came over with her parents in the early 70's, at age 3. She is 100% American, her parents are more American than my wife and me, their kids are georgeous, and getting to know Sung-a and Chan- ho has been an amazing and rewarding experience.
I am nevertheless surprised that 20% of current marriages are interracial. That's progress.
I am nevertheless surprised that 20% of current marriages are interracial. That's progress.
4
Good for you and those things in my opinion did not exist to the extent that the media reported them. And I judge based on what you do in your job, not say your race, national origin, or the culture you were raised in. By those objective criteria I am quite happy that Hillary is not president and that our country is at least trying to move in an improved direction. Improved for citizens nobody else.
4
Love transcends all bounds and knows no burden. When my husband and I married 44 years ago, that was the line our priest used at our wedding. My husband was Jewish and I, Roman Catholic. No Rabbi would co-officiate with the priest so we did our best to make up a "Jewish" ceremony that was held in a Catholic church. Not only has it lasted but we have two wonderful grown children who have learned that love does transcend all bounds in many ways.
22
As they say in the West, live and let live. Who really cares about this non story. If these people are happy then so be it. Life is too short.
10
This is a lovely story and plenty of folks here care. No reason for your comment.
42
The stories of these couples have so resonated with the experiences that my wife and I have had since our marriage 40 years ago. Jeonghee is first generation Korean and I am Caucasian and we have two beautiful daughters to whom we gave traditional Korean names so that they would not forget that side of their heritage. As others have said here, you love who you love, regardless. I can't imagine a life that didn't include near equal amounts of both of our cultures, the richness that this sharing has afforded us is beyond measure. Both of my daughters studied in the UK and as a consequence I now have two Scottish son in laws to add to this glorious mix.
44
Lovely story that puts faces to what it means when the law gets out our homes and bedrooms. I look forward to more stories like these decades from now when we look back on the Windsor decision.
14
The law has been out of your homes and bedrooms for a long time. It was culture that was an issue, and somewhat still is. I doubt that culture is going to be totally accepting no matter than decision, and it might be reversed or modified.
1
That Nature makes fruitful that which we can feel in our hearts tells us beyond doubt we are one species sharing one planet.
What is more, the story of ANY two human beings falling in love and sharing their lives ought be completely unremarkable.
Thank you Leon and Rosina for your courage in lighting the path so many more human beings are now following. You have made it that much easier for us to make the same choice.
What is more, the story of ANY two human beings falling in love and sharing their lives ought be completely unremarkable.
Thank you Leon and Rosina for your courage in lighting the path so many more human beings are now following. You have made it that much easier for us to make the same choice.
21
Very nice story.
My "mixed" parents were married as well for almost 60 years. My father from Surinam and mother from the Netherlands. They passed away recently within 1 year after another. Perhaps we don't have this problem as much as in the US?
My "mixed" parents were married as well for almost 60 years. My father from Surinam and mother from the Netherlands. They passed away recently within 1 year after another. Perhaps we don't have this problem as much as in the US?
29
I met Mr. and Mrs. Watson as I had the pleasure of working with Lucia for many years. They are as lovely and adorable in person as this article portrays them to be. And Lucia proudly represents their loving relationship by equally embracing both of her ancestral backgrounds with enthusiasm and authenticity. She is totally committed to supporting and representing the best of our diverse and continuously evolving, albeit at times very slowly, melting pot which we call... America.
Congratulations to you two love birds!! Wishing you many more years of wedded bliss!!
Congratulations to you two love birds!! Wishing you many more years of wedded bliss!!
91
In awe, you were so brave.
28
Being the first at anything is certainly something for the record book. The rest just have to settle for the phone book. No doubt that was the last thing they were thinking about back then. Happy anniversary, Watsons.
12
As someone in an interracial, same-sex marriage, this story has great personal meaning to me. In early 2014, my husband was one of the first gay men approved in The Philippines for a fiancé visa after nullification of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). Like the Watsons, we don't view ourselves a 'pioneers.' Nevertheless, I have no doubt that the Watsons helped pave the way for couples like us. For that, I was always be grateful.
Congratulations to both of them for 67 amazing years of marital bliss, and for their lovely family.
Congratulations to both of them for 67 amazing years of marital bliss, and for their lovely family.
45
These stories come with so much hope. I am 69 years old. I got married in 1969. I am of Chinese heritage. My husband is of Eastern European heritage. We have been married for almost 48 years. We have had similar reactions as others in our choice to marry. My mother in law, said, "at least she isn't Black. I knew he would marry a Black person." A colleague of mine some years later said, "Marie, you do have black hair." My father asked if John was Jewish, since his Jewish friends reported their children were marrying Asians. In 1969, the Vietnam War was going on. I was looked upon in the small towns in MN as a war bride. I recall with much hurt and pain of not being served in a diner/restaurant in St Cloud MN. our son was 2 years old and I was pregnant with our daughter. But in the long span of living, I believe in hope and tolerance. Love is love. Every once in a while, we are met with ignorance and miserable words. I have 3 beautiful grandchildren who are 25% Asian. When Donald Trump complains about China, I admit that I am glad that no one would think that my grandchildren had Chinese blood, so they would not be hurt. These moments are few in this wonderful country. Thanks to all the wonderful stories. I always know that Anne Frank's belief that people are good at heart is true.
70
Gosh Marie, your post brought a tear to my eye. Such beautiful prose painted with such bittersweet strokes. I am so sorry that you encountered pain and prejudice. I was truly touched by your honest and frank statement of "I admit that I am glad that no one would think that my grandchildren had Chinese blood, so they would not be hurt." WOW - that really struck a chord with me. Thank you for having the courage to share this story. Prejudice, on any level, for any reason, is not only inexcusable, but blatant hate and meanness. There is no place for that in any society. Like you stated, "love is love". Nothing else in life is more important that that. Thanks again for your encouraging and honest words. They will resonant in my mind for a very long time.
22
Mixed race marriages used to be illegal in some places (most? all?) in the US? Incredible. Well, at least mixed gender marriages were not forbidden so we did have some common sense.
5
Can't tell if you're being sarcastic or not. Do you really think gay marriage was legal in the 50s?
7
I think PaulIN's comment is sarcastic implying that it's shocking to think that interracial marriages were outlawed so recently and then to back up this point they express sarcastic surprise that mixed gender marriages were allowed. Which clearly they were because there is no social stigma against people of different genders marrying. Just like there should be no stigma against people of mixed races marrying.
6
Congratulations to the Watsons for a successful marriage and setting a great example for everyone. I remind my 19-year-old son at times that I grew up in an era where interracial marriage, while technically not illegal, was largely frowned on and how I was stunned to see my first interracial couple when I was about 15. He just shakes his head and says, "How stupid." That's progress. Hoping to see a lot more progress in my lifetime on this and other Civil Rights issues.
31
What a great story and you both were so elegant in that wedding picture.
31
When we reach the point where the media isn't compelled to point out that someone is in a biracial relationship we will know that we have reached a point where race is no longer a factor. In the meantime I'd like to thank this couple and others like them for showing that love is colorblind. Thank you for sharing their story. We are better as a nation because of people like them.
22
I applaud Mr. and Mrs. Watson for sharing their story. I know they had to deal with a variety of difficult issues. Their happiness is a testament to their love.
My son who is very fair, is married to a dark skinned East Indian woman. Their sons have a lovely olive complexion. Because they live in a cosmopolitan northern area, the children have not been exposed to a lot of discrimination.
However this is not the case for many children in other parts of the country, who still deal with discrimination based on race or ethnicity.
I need not go far in my southern community to hear nasty language directed at blacks, Latinos and other dark-skinned people. In fact, the Sons of the Confederacy still complain that the Civil War was the "War of Northern Aggression." I hope people here will soon be able to live as well as the Watsons.
My son who is very fair, is married to a dark skinned East Indian woman. Their sons have a lovely olive complexion. Because they live in a cosmopolitan northern area, the children have not been exposed to a lot of discrimination.
However this is not the case for many children in other parts of the country, who still deal with discrimination based on race or ethnicity.
I need not go far in my southern community to hear nasty language directed at blacks, Latinos and other dark-skinned people. In fact, the Sons of the Confederacy still complain that the Civil War was the "War of Northern Aggression." I hope people here will soon be able to live as well as the Watsons.
15
Obviously, this is not a north- south thing, and I'm sure you know that. As someone living in Boston during the busing crisis, I know it can happen anywhere. And even then, I'd be hesitant to say that race was the only factor.
3
as much as the story is about race, the most important part of the story is a love that endured; a marriage that was so strong nothing thrown at them could break that bond. We should all be so lucky to have that experience in our lives. I know I am!
37
What a lovely story. We need more like this.
17
Happy Anniversary you 2! Your union has engendered so much to be proud of.
11
We are so proud of ourselves for accepting mixed-race marriages, and rightly so.
So why are we feel so much ambivalence about mixed race dating and sex? After all, that's how most married couples start off, just enjoying each other's company. One black friend told me this would be 'profoundly repugnant', because even now, more than 150 years later, it recalls the times of slavery when women had to choice.
So why are we feel so much ambivalence about mixed race dating and sex? After all, that's how most married couples start off, just enjoying each other's company. One black friend told me this would be 'profoundly repugnant', because even now, more than 150 years later, it recalls the times of slavery when women had to choice.
2
When it is no longer a subject of any news organization we will know that it is really common and that racists at these organizations have been eliminated.
9
Says the guy who supports the party of voter suppression based on race.
2
Pioneers and heroes often do not regard themselves as such, which is even more impressive. Love can conquer many challenges and it is a joy to read your inspirational story. I wish you much continued happiness!
14
Growing up in the tumultuous Civil Rights era, I remember thinking that perhaps we'd all get along after there'd been so many mixed marriages that we no longer are distinguishable by race or color. Wouldn't that be nice.
14
Overcoming the problems we have accepting diversity by...ending diversity. I think I'd rather a world where we love each other and our differences, rather than a world where we're all the same.
2
Race and shade of color still matter in places like Brazil so don't hold your breath.
7
and NYC and Chicago
2
Thank you New York Times for this touching and exquisite article. I particularly love the current picture of Rosina and Leon Watson. You can just FEEL their lifetime of love. For once, it is refreshing to read a positive and encouraging article on the front page of the NYT about people who have the courage to follow their hearts and not be intimidated nor bullied by society's expectations. Beautiful stories. Thank you so much for sharing.
52
Thanks to the NYT for also memorializing with this article and a second one on several more recent interracial marriages 50 years of Loving vs. Virginia. The film on the Lovings that came out last year was very powerful in a quiet way. New generations need to be reminded of how things stood at other times in history. Regardless of how they feel things are today.
13
Though not unusual anymore, interracial couples still face comments and looks from strangers, friends, and their own families. Comments along the lines of "white women taking all the good black men", stereotypes about "submissive Asian women", "at least he isn't black", "betraying the race" are still common refrains in the privacy of homes.
23
Or comments like "why do you have to be with a white man. Do you think you are too good for a black man?"
8
These couples were brave. Thank you for the beautiful report.
18
Congratulations to the Watsons for what sounds like a wonderful marriage. My white father refused to attend our wedding when I married my Mexican-born-and-raised husband in 1978. Fortunately, he had a change of heart when his first grandchild was born. Thank goodness we have come so far as a society in recent decades. Like Mrs. Watson, I look forward to that change continuing.
23
Nice stories but the reality, at least in central Virginia, is even more encouraging! Many young folk don't marry but racial mixing is ever increasing! Many beautiful children from white/black relationships are seen in strollers at Walmart and local parks! The primary comments are only 'how cute!'
11
Only love can truly beat prejudice. This couple faced several issues - and loved them away. I have always thought that the Supreme Court decision on mixed-race marriages was very appropriately represented by the Lovings. I also noticed that all of the Watson children got their "feet" genes from their Daddy!
1
In my home country of Jamaica, I am described as a "browning" -- cafe au lait skin colouring and straight hair. I am the product of centuries of miscegenation. When I married my college sweetheart, a white man, in 1969 in Los Angeles, I had no idea that the Loving case had been decided by the SCOTUS just a few years earlier or that the Watsons had made history in California only 19 years before. It never dawned on me that there could be any legal restrictions on who I could date, fall in love with or marry.
Perhaps because of the large Hispanic population in California and the cosmopolitan environment of Los Angeles, I never really experienced any discrimination because of my marriage, but on a couple of occasions I was made aware of how I might be perceived by some because of the colour of my skin. But I never let any of that inhibit me from leading my life.
When the father of a well-to-do white friend from upstate New York said to me that he hoped my subsequent divorce didn't have to do with any "racial" issues, I was surprised but understood what he meant. I assured him that the eventual dissolution of my marriage was due solely to the differences that can arise when two inexperienced people, barely out of the nest try to make a go of it while just beginning to learn who they are as individuals much less as part of a couple. The issue of race, how it is perceived and how it plays out on the American stage is unique in the world.
Perhaps because of the large Hispanic population in California and the cosmopolitan environment of Los Angeles, I never really experienced any discrimination because of my marriage, but on a couple of occasions I was made aware of how I might be perceived by some because of the colour of my skin. But I never let any of that inhibit me from leading my life.
When the father of a well-to-do white friend from upstate New York said to me that he hoped my subsequent divorce didn't have to do with any "racial" issues, I was surprised but understood what he meant. I assured him that the eventual dissolution of my marriage was due solely to the differences that can arise when two inexperienced people, barely out of the nest try to make a go of it while just beginning to learn who they are as individuals much less as part of a couple. The issue of race, how it is perceived and how it plays out on the American stage is unique in the world.
16
There has never been a scientific or ethical basis in opposition of mixed-race unions or the progeny that results. There is a mountain of scientific data supporting the benefits when species outbreed, creating new genetic combinations. Conversely, there are numerous examples of genetically inherited diseases resulting from inbreeding human populations.
Those opposed to mixed-race unions need to do more studying in epistemology or what constitutes justified beliefs.
Those opposed to mixed-race unions need to do more studying in epistemology or what constitutes justified beliefs.
4
You do know that skin color doesn't equate to a different species don't you?
14
DR - A race is not a species. We are all the same species, regardless of race.
6
I love these kinds of stories because they reinforce and continue to instill the notion and power of love, regardless of race, color, politics, and social intolerance. I remember when Vince Lombardi was informed by Lionel Aldridge and his wife, Vicky, that they were going to get married. Mr. Lombardi had the biggest smile on his face and wished them the very best. Period. He then said he expected Mr. Aldridge to continue to play his very best on the football field as well. It took a great deal of courage and commitment to take that unprecedented step. They also received a lot of flack for being the first interracial couple in NFL history. But that did not deter them. They remained married for many, many years. It also said a lot about Mr. Lombardi's character and his refusal to allow any kind of discrimination to exist in his ball club. God bless these wonderful couples. God bless true love and commitment to each other.
10
What a beautiful family! Good, strong, decent people standing up for what's right.
This is a story we need right now, to remind us that there are good, and great Americans.
This is a story we need right now, to remind us that there are good, and great Americans.
16
We need to stop being lead by the least among us. Troglodytes only know fear and insanity. Time for the vast majority of humanity to stand tall!
10
Unfortunately, and unhappy, they will not survive to see much progress in racial discrimination, as we in this country need to find a way to love one another, regardless of race of ethnicity. This seems to be a discussion that American's are loath to have. I wonder why that is sooo frightening!
2
Just in my building, I have a white man married to an African-American woman; a white Brit married to a Chinese-American woman; a white Armenian-American man married to a Chinese-American woman. And every day on the streets of NYC, you see such couples—and, more to the point, their wonderful children.
The Caldecott Award-winning artists Leo and Diane Dillon stood out for their interracial marriage (he African-American, she a blonde) in the 1960s, but I am not aware of any prejudice they encountered, certainly not in the liberal community in which they lived and worked.
The Caldecott Award-winning artists Leo and Diane Dillon stood out for their interracial marriage (he African-American, she a blonde) in the 1960s, but I am not aware of any prejudice they encountered, certainly not in the liberal community in which they lived and worked.
30
And when we no longer notice that will be something. I don't keep track of these sorts of things, and neither should you.
4
Growing up as an African-American in the rural south, I regularly heard several relatives state how they would never consider a romantic relationship with a white person, even a black partner who mistreated them was preferable to a white person. Over time, I watched some of them suffer dire consequences for that mindset by selecting black partners who either mistreated or were dishonest with them. All the while, an uncle married a white woman in the early 1970s and they're still together today. Throughout the ups and downs of the years, they've supported each other and have been a good example to the next generation.
My takeaway: Life presents its share of joys and challenges and none of us are perfect. If someone finds a partner who loves, accepts and wants to share life's journey with them; it would be a shame to let the fact that the other person is of a different race become an insurmountable obstacle. Thankfully we live in a day/time where an interracial relationship isn't a crime.
Congratulations to the Watsons!
My takeaway: Life presents its share of joys and challenges and none of us are perfect. If someone finds a partner who loves, accepts and wants to share life's journey with them; it would be a shame to let the fact that the other person is of a different race become an insurmountable obstacle. Thankfully we live in a day/time where an interracial relationship isn't a crime.
Congratulations to the Watsons!
125
The prejudice we encountered as an interracial couple in the Metropolitan DC area in the seventies was intense. Landlords were reluctant to rent to us (remember DC was 90% black then), the grotesque comments made by white men etc. etc. have permanently scared me and negatively impacted my attitude towards white men who I find to be predominantly racist irrespective of the patronizing platitudes I hear from them today.
51
I had two college friends who got married while we were still in school in 1968. He was white and she was black. I remember they went on a cruise for their honeymoon, and were shunned by most of their fellow passengers--except for one couple who was also on the honeymoon. Turned out it was Chubby Checker and his white wife. The two couples spent most of the cruise together.
I lost track of my friends when we graduated, but I always wondered if they stayed friends with Chubby and his wife.
I lost track of my friends when we graduated, but I always wondered if they stayed friends with Chubby and his wife.
75
Thank you, Jennifer Medina, and the NYTimes, for this beautifully written, touching, true story. I hope it opens eyes and hearts.
56
What a beautiful story. This story shows that the power of love can overcome pure hatred and bigotry. Its very touching that this couple overcame all this hatred for so many years and raised a beautiful family. Its very sad that today we still have to talk about racial discrimination. I believe people are a lot more educated now, but the racism we face today can be viewed as even more dangerous then we did 50 years ago. 50 years ago you knew where people stood. They were overt about their bigotry, today people are more secretive about it. Stories like these are important because it shows people that no matter what we can overcome this ignorance though the . Thanks NYtimes.
27
I would think that there are many greater differences in married couples than the skin color, but they are hidden under the similar skin colors.
I come from mixed parentage: male and female.
"Mixed Marriages"
www.efn.org/~hkrieger/weddings.htm
I come from mixed parentage: male and female.
"Mixed Marriages"
www.efn.org/~hkrieger/weddings.htm
13
Not too many people make snide remarks when they see a man married to a woman.
I'd like to thank these brave people.
38
California has always been ahead of other states by years in everything! I miss California!
50
Great story. We need to be reminded about people's struggles in the past, bit and everyday quiet struggles for something as obviously personal and intimate as the person you choose to love and marry. Inspiring quiet resisters. They did not face all the celebration, support and media coverage of gay marrying couples today! I would have liked a longer article with more interviews. How was it for Mr. Watson? Who were their friends later in life? How did family relate to them after they married? And after the children came? And in Mexico during their visits?And more on the children's stories too. Interesting that Mrs. Watson speaks about "how bad blacks have been treated" and that "Mexican" became a shield to cover their mixed racial identities (there was no "latino" at the time). Let's not forget that Mexicans were not treated very well either, not at that time (although she hints at that regarding her use of the "Watson" surname). Bravo for the couple who faced history and life together for more than half a century. And for their children in hard times. Great family photo watching family photos about the past. All the best!
32
Love is love.
30
Not until you've had your stomach kicked in by an angry person who disagrees with your "love" choice.
Not until someone spits at you and tells you you're betraying your race because of your "love" choice.
Not until your "love" choice's family slips up and let's a racist word fly from their lips at a family gathering and no one defends you. In fact your "love" asks you to let it slide and forgive them because they grew up during a different time.
I'm all for love conquers all, and we all bleed the same color blah blah ideas but reality has a way of not being ignored.
Not until someone spits at you and tells you you're betraying your race because of your "love" choice.
Not until your "love" choice's family slips up and let's a racist word fly from their lips at a family gathering and no one defends you. In fact your "love" asks you to let it slide and forgive them because they grew up during a different time.
I'm all for love conquers all, and we all bleed the same color blah blah ideas but reality has a way of not being ignored.
4
The most common mixed-race couple ones sees in California by far is white male/Asian female. All other combos are rarely seen. Why?
7
shared assumptions regarding male and female roles?
Level of education?
1
A California license plate with 9 characters? I don't think so.
1
Yes, custom plates in California can now go up to 9 digits.
Howie, where in the article does it say any of their children currently live or lived in CA at the time of the license plate? Sure, they grew up in Oakland, but people are mobile. Displaying cynicism in a story like this is not a good sign.
10
Isn't it crazy, all of the things people do to one another? Love is eternal.
One would think that people could be a lot kinder and helpful to each other as hard as life can be and given what we all must personally endure.
We could celebrate our sameness and not crucif perceived differences.....that poison always comes back to haunt.
One would think that people could be a lot kinder and helpful to each other as hard as life can be and given what we all must personally endure.
We could celebrate our sameness and not crucif perceived differences.....that poison always comes back to haunt.
16
To think they lived in the social bubble of California and still faced problems. This story is encouraging and disappointing at the same time. How sweet they've had one another for 66 years. How many same-race couples last that long?
28
This is a fine article about what eventually will dissolve America's archaic conceptions of there being distinct races. It is a story of quiet American heroes.
'Miscegenation' (a horrid term) blurred and then virtually destroyed racial categories in the early days of Spanish and Portuguese colonialism, but the process never did get very far in Protestant-dominated colonial contexts like the US. Rationales for the continued enslavement of peoples from Africa bolstered the notion of distinct races despite ongoing informal and forces liaisons between 'races'. The latter was so extensive that by 1900 many hundreds of thousands of people were socially and politically classed as 'Black' yet were physically indistinguishable from 'whites'. Why many of their descendants 'crossed the line' that line itself remained firm.
Today's 'intermarriage' exhibits something different: a direct challenge to the core racial categories themselves. Bravo for that!
'Miscegenation' (a horrid term) blurred and then virtually destroyed racial categories in the early days of Spanish and Portuguese colonialism, but the process never did get very far in Protestant-dominated colonial contexts like the US. Rationales for the continued enslavement of peoples from Africa bolstered the notion of distinct races despite ongoing informal and forces liaisons between 'races'. The latter was so extensive that by 1900 many hundreds of thousands of people were socially and politically classed as 'Black' yet were physically indistinguishable from 'whites'. Why many of their descendants 'crossed the line' that line itself remained firm.
Today's 'intermarriage' exhibits something different: a direct challenge to the core racial categories themselves. Bravo for that!
18
The Spanish, the Portuguese, and to some the French were more liberal about people of different "races" marrying and reproducing, but it was complicated. As opposed to nullifying racial categories, it multiplied them. Zambos, griffes, passablancs, etc. were people of mixed ancestry culturally and legally defined by the amount of indigenous, African, and European blood that had. The marriages were not always legally defined as such and were often a situation of concubinage. Also, the relationships that were deemed permissible were those of a man of European ancestry and a woman of color.
So, yes, it was "better," but really only for the European men.
So, yes, it was "better," but really only for the European men.
5
Love conquers all . . . but it's still a shame that these people had to go through any kind of hardship just because they loved each other and happened to have different skin color. Someday let's hope everyone will be completely colorblind.
26
Happy Anniversary! You are beautiful humans.
72
My Best Wishes to this couple and their family.
May you have many more years together.
May you have many more years together.
41
I have to remind myself that I’m part of a mixed race couple until my husband comes home and tells me the discrimination he’s faced during the day. I confess I didn’t always believe him in the beginning thinking he was just overreacting. My perception has now changed. When my son was born everyone said his skin would get darker - but it didn’t and I could sense my husband’s relief. We’ve come a long way and I’ve felt the change from when we first traveled together as a couple down South but I’ve also sadly felt the pendulum swing back this past year as he comes home every day now with a story that has to do with the color of his skin.
86
It is sad, that two people could not just live their lives as they see fit. What even sadder loving descendants claim she was not African America,but just Native American. Thank you for sharing such a nice story, it so sad because our skin tone or sexual ordination/gender should not matter but our we treat other fellow human beings. We all are God's adopted children and made us all in his imagine.
9
As a white male born middle class in 1951 I have never ever really had a single struggle like the Watson's faced, probably every day. Their quiet courage brings tears to my eyes. I've a secret wish that at least once in my life I may be required to stand up like they did.
69
Such a beautiful couple!
8
Sincere question for the New York Times: If the racial language of yesterday was "bureaucratic", according to the story.... what would be the newspaper's or author's preference in 2017?
"Other"?
"Other"?
1
this article is very misleading in that it implies that mixed race marriages were prohibited throughout the entire US. In reality, they were prohibited in slightly less than half of the states of the US (the number was, roughly, 21, give or take 1 or 2).
The NY Times needs do a little more research (or be more truthful).
The NY Times needs do a little more research (or be more truthful).
10
The legal language is accurate in the article: "It would be nearly two decades before all couples like them across the country were allowed to marry." Moreover, the marriage licenses could be treated as invalid in other states, which is why Loving was important.
5
Thank you Yoda. This article was terribly misleading. I have known interracial couples married in the 1920s. Loving only made it illegal for the states that barred these marriages to continue to do so. NYT is doing a disservice to those who don't know their history. NO EXCUSE for the Times reporters to not do their research.
4
Wonderful story. I live in Oakland and love the diversity here. I have Black, Latino, Asian and White neighbors. I couldn't imagine it any other way.
As a hippy in the 60's we had many friends in the "family' that were in these kinds of relationships....I never thought it even unusual...As a teenager one of my best friends was daughter of an Afro Amer mom and Caucasian dad..in southern IN small town...with very few Afro Amers...I never thought that was unusual either. And my parents never made racist comments about my friend or her family at least to me...(I am white) Needless to say as an adult I had various non white boyfriends...Please grow up Americans...
17
Beautiful things can happen when people come together.
12
Great piece. California was the first state in the nation to legalize marriage between partners of different ethnicities. The case in question was Perez v. Sharp from 1948. Like this couple, the bride was Mexican-American and the groom was African American. They remained married until their deaths.
67
Congratulations on 50 years of marriage.You are just adorable.
9
50 years? How about 67 years? The headline appears to be in error, probably based on the marriage of the Lovings of Virgina, who were married in 1958, and whose case prevailed in court in 1967, which was 50 years ago.
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/03/opinion/sunday/how-interracial-love-i...®ion=EndOfArticle&pgtype=article
https://www.nytimes.com/2017/06/03/opinion/sunday/how-interracial-love-i...®ion=EndOfArticle&pgtype=article
7
50 years? Try 67 years! The headline is wrong, and at first I thought the story was about the Lovings of Virginia, who were married in 1967, or 50 years ago.
8
50 years? Try 67 years! The headline is misleading, presumably referring to the 1967 Supreme Court ruling validating the interracial marriage of the Lovings of Virginia, who were married in 1958.
Still an excellent article, about a remarkable couple.
Still an excellent article, about a remarkable couple.
1
This article refers more than once to Mrs. Watson's childhood in "New Mexico". Elsewhere in the article it states that she is of Mexican heritage. I think that author may have meant to say "Mexico" rather than "New Mexico" (which is a U.S. state).
2
There's nothing contradictory there -- it sounds as though Mrs. Watson was born in New Mexico to parents who were either Mexican-born or of Mexican ancestry.
19
The population of New Mexico is largely people of Mexican heritage. It, in fact, used to be part of Mexico as did Texas, Arizona, and parts of California
26
Lovely Lovely People! God bless you for generations
14
Honestly, a lot comes down to where you choose to live, and for some of us, where you worship. I'm a white woman who has been married to a black man for 25 years. We have two thriving bi-racial children for whom race is a positive discussion. We celebrate race at times but not constantly - my kids are not confused or have any feelings of ambiguity about their bi-racial makeup. That's because we made intentional choices along the way - where we live (urban), what schools we choose (public), where we worship (progressive Christian), where we send our kids to camp, etc. If you choose to live in the suburbs, or send your kids to private schools, or make other racial and socio-economic life decisions that will isolate you and your kids, then don't be surprised if you and your kids are mixed up about race and class.
44
Congratulations on your wonderful marriage of 25 years. The Watsons were married over 75 years ago and faced a different nation and a different set of circumstances.
1
I think inter-racial marriage is great, but I would like to see the playing field leveled. In that there are are so few eligible black bachelors, it is disturbing to find that so many (25%) white collar black men are disproportionately marrying inter-racially while a significant number of professional black women remain single. It's also interesting that professional black men tend to marry white women who have a significant lower socio-economic status compared to white men who marry their equals among black women. I think black men primarily choose to marry inter-racially because they are obsessed with whiteness, which may explain why they experience a much higher divorce rate than other inter-racial groups. Unlike other racial groups, this theme of black male inter-racial dating/mating being played out in film and TV wherein prominent black male actors are nearly always juxtaposed a non-black love interest.
13
Yes - in my extended family, almost all the men of color are married to white women. Every inter-married couple I know (many) are a man of color (or a woman of color) married to a white woman.
4
What a tremendous story. How lucky Rosina and Leon are to have found someone to love and cherish for all of their lives...in spite of the racial prejudices they had to endure. We should all be so lucky to have a relationship like theirs. More stories like this, please!
20
Congratulations! I am happy that you were strong enough to withstand the ignorance of others. You both look happy and have lived long and thrived. You are an inspiration to all.
39
I'm a white man celebrating my 12th year of marriage to a black woman. I love articles like this, of course. My marriage stands on the shoulders of these folks.
That established, can I hijack for a paragraph or so? When Ice Cube gave Bill Maher his (deserved) explanation for why, "That's our word now, and you can't have it back," he referenced the over-familiarity adopted by some white men. True. But then he used, as an example, "Guys that might have a black girlfriend or two that made them Kool-Aid every now and then."
Being Kool-Aid was never on my mind.
My feeling toward my wife was well expressed by Richard Loving: "Tell the court I love her." After his death, Mildred said of her late husband, "I miss him. He took care of me."
Most marriages, mine included, are just that simple.
That established, can I hijack for a paragraph or so? When Ice Cube gave Bill Maher his (deserved) explanation for why, "That's our word now, and you can't have it back," he referenced the over-familiarity adopted by some white men. True. But then he used, as an example, "Guys that might have a black girlfriend or two that made them Kool-Aid every now and then."
Being Kool-Aid was never on my mind.
My feeling toward my wife was well expressed by Richard Loving: "Tell the court I love her." After his death, Mildred said of her late husband, "I miss him. He took care of me."
Most marriages, mine included, are just that simple.
168
I watched the interview and don't believe Ice Cube meant the Kool Aid reference literally. I suspect you know this as well.
1
Believe it or not, WWII, with all its to-ing and fro-ing of soldiers from USA to parts exotic, is the primary cause for the acceptance of mixed couples, but they have been a functioning and real part of the nation since before it even became a nation, believe it or not (see "Private Yankee Doodle", the memoir of an American revolutionary soldier, for instance).
War is such a great thing.
War is such a great thing.
5
You both look happy in your wedding picture and happy in the picture from last week. Congratulations on being married for so long! You have my respect, admiration, and my hope that others can find such joy in life. You and other couples like you prove the fact that love is colorblind. Thank you!
129
http://scocal.stanford.edu/opinion/perez-v-sharp-26107