Do you know what significant thing happened 45 years ago today that has impacted my life?
In 1967 the Supreme Court ruled the previous Anti-Miscegenation (Interracial Relations) laws unconstitutional. Loving vs. Virginia was the case that changed it all.
Just 46 years ago my marriage would have been against the law. In fact in Oklahoma, the state we were married in banned marriage to anyone with even a drop of black blood in them. Hard to imagine the reality that in the not so distant past, a family like mine would have to fight to exist.
My husband and I were talking about it just today, how often he was warned that our marriage could derail his career and life goals because it would change the way people looked at him. I remember how it hurt him to hear those words from trusted mentors and friends in his life at the time. I also remember us talking about how out of date their thinking was. That was just over 10 years ago.
I can't imagine waking up to the Police being in my bedroom demanding us to get up because we were under arrest. Arrested for being in love, starting a family and trying to live a normal life. The Lovings fought the law and won. They were not the first to fight, but their case made it possible for me to freely love and grow the family that I have.
I feel so blessed to be able to love and live with the man I want to love. I am thankful for the chance our kids have to be unique because of the diverse blend that created their special qualities. I am grateful today for the many couples like ours that fought for their love. Their struggles made the way smoother for us. The path they walked to protect their relationships enable me to celebrate mine. In a couple of months we will celebrate our 11th anniversary. Today I celebrate the right and freedom to do so.
If you would like to learn more about Loving Day Click Here.
Have a great day and take some time to hug the one you love!
As an African-American woman married to a white man raising biracial children, I love this post and your picture! Thank you so much for posting this. So hard to believe that my marriage would have been illegal in the 60s, and so hard to believe that others still are being denied this right.
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by Keesha. It really is hard to imagine isn't it?
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that it was so recent, within my lifetime. I'm so happy that my parents taught me it's not what's on the outside whether dark skin or tons of fat like me that makes a person special, but what's in their heart!!
ReplyDeleteLove you Tamika! Thanks for sharing!!
I am glad that my parents taught me that you have to look at what is on the inside that counts and that I have beautiful friends and family that follow their heart and for the courage of the Loving family in standing up for what they knew was right.
ReplyDeleteLove you! Now I like Loving Day as well. I remember incomprehensible days of craziness and prejudice feelings. God has done mighty things through you and your precious husband! Can't wait to see the marvelous things your children will accomplish for Him!
ReplyDeleteLove it, Tamika and love you guys! Brianna Carroll
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