Janine Ugogu with husband. Facebook | Nwanyiocha
Janine Ugogu a.k.a Nwanyi Ocha (white woman) is one of the most popular influencers across all social media platforms. Born in Zurich, Switzerland, and married to an Igbo man from the southeastern part of Nigeria.
She is endeared to many for her successful attempts at not only learning the Igbo culture and language but also for promoting the allure of cultural diversity and the uniqueness between her Swiss and Igbo heritage and customs. In partnership with her husband, her kids are actively participating and experiencing both cultural worlds.
All across social media, it is easy to come across one African and European interracial couple who are showcasing the beauty of both worlds and helping to disabuse whatever prejudice people have against interracial marriages.
In the past, interracial marriages were unthinkable. Not only did society frown at it, but there was also a great deal of family disapproval and in some extreme cases, a blatant refusal to accord any recognition or rights to the offspring of such a union. These social stigmas were a continued stumbling block to many couples finding happiness.
However, times have not only changed but such unions are now encouraged and celebrated. Through such cross-cultural marriages, prejudices are being dismantled, and there is a growing appreciation and understanding of the customs, values, beliefs, and diversity of the African and European traditions which have created more social acceptability.
Photo by Andrea Piacquadio
One way interracial marriages between Africa and Europe are bridging the gap in traditions is through the strengthening of the institution of marriage. African culture provides a support system from family and close confidants for couples especially newly-weds who might encounter turbulent times in their marriage. Divorce, though seen as a taboo is the last resort when all else has failed. Leveraging such support systems to tackle marital challenges will do a lot of good in reducing the prevalence of broken homes.
Another way interracial marriages bridge the gap is through the culinary experience both cultures have to offer. Specific foods are unique to each culture and also is an expression of their identity. Experiencing each is a great opportunity to try something new and different as well as discover new ways of increasing culinary delights through a mixture of African and European spices.
Fashion is also a way interracial marriages can bridge cultural gaps. African traditional attires combine a blend of colors, patterns, and complex designs while European attires are represented through their elegance and detailed outlook. Fashion designers who understand the uniqueness of both worlds have begun to merge these two styles as a way to introduce new designs into the fashion world.
Culture, music, dance, and language, are all unique identities of Africa and Europe. Interracial marriages. They create opportunities for learning by appreciating the histories of each partner. It also creates an opportunity for the fusion of music and dance as can be seen with the introduction of several music genres such as Afro Hip-Hop and Afro Pop. A combination of these musical histories will create a musical combination that fosters cultural connectivity.
Interracial marriages between African and European partners are continuing to break down biases and stigmas while fostering unity and creating a culturally diverse world.
Okechukwu Nzeribe works with the Onitsha Chamber of Commerce, in Anambra State, Nigeria, and loves unveiling the richness of African cultures. nextquestservices@gmail.com
