My mom keeps making comments about my boyfriend's culture that she thinks are compliments but actually feel patronizing, and when I try to address it she gets defensive about not being racist, while he just withdraws more each time we visit.
More people experience this than they realize.
Three people are caught in a cycle where good intentions, hurt feelings, and protective instincts are all making the situation worse.
“Where Are You with Interracial and Cross-Cultural Partnerships?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.