Dating in the United States can feel like a grand adventure. It is a huge country with millions of singles, including a large and diverse Black community. From the bustling streets of New York to the laid-back vibes of Atlanta or Los Angeles, the experiences can vary widely. Yet, one thing remains true across the board: knowing your values and having clarity about what you want will guide you through the ups and downs of the American dating scene. It is noteworthy and a bit startling that nearly half of Black adults in the U.S. have never been married. This statistic shows that while there are many of us out there, finding that lifelong partnership has its challenges but it is far from impossible.
In the U.S., Black relationship blossoms in the face of unique obstacles. There are historical and social factors at play from dealing with racism in the dating world like being fetishised or facing biases on dating apps to the gender ratio disparities in some cities. That is why clarity and values are so crucial. When you are clear that you want a serious, healthy relationship, you are less likely to get sidetracked by those who are not on the same page. You might, for example, pass on that situationship offer and hold out for someone looking for commitment. And when you prioritise core values like trust, loyalty, and mutual respect you set a high standard. As we mentioned in Dating with Integrity, sticking to your values helps you filter out incompatible matches.
America’s Black communities are beautifully varied. Maybe you are Afro-Caribbean American or African American, or from a blended background understanding your cultural values will also help in dating. If faith and church on Sunday are a big part of your life, you may seek someone who’s into that scene. If you are passionate about social justice, finding a partner who “gets it” will be important for your bond. Clarity here might mean being upfront about these important aspects of your life when dating.
The bright side is that Black dating is celebrated now more than ever from popular culture to movements centred on uplifting Black relationships. You can tap into this by joining groups church groups, professional networks for Black singles, etc. or attending events like Black dating mixers. Also, consider resources like Black matchmakers or coaches who specialise in serious relationships.
If you are a Black single in the U.S. determined to find that special someone, arm yourself with the best tools. Join our Relationship Readiness Masterclass to hone your dating strategy and mindset. With clarity and strong values, you can navigate the American dating journey and write your own Black love success story.