Disney Star wars Actor John Boyega received strong backlash online after saying, “I only date black people,” with some saying that a white man dating only white women is considered racist.
Black Boyega talked about his relationship choices in a recent interview with a British publication. GQ.
“I went on a new date with Black. [sic]The 30-year-old British actor told the magazine, “Then it’s about chemistry, personality and goals. Is there synergy? Can I help you? They don’t want you in their job.”
His comments sparked a heated debate on social media, and Boyega himself urged people to leave him alone.
When they talk about the preferences of brunettes or blondes, they are not talking about wigs. My preferences are indisputable. https://t.co/KixWdUKBYz
— John Boyega (@JohnBoyega) 15 September 2022
Some commentators have pointed to a broader double standard, noting that a white man can’t get away with saying he only wants to date white women.
John Boyega says it’s okay for him to only date black women.
It’s a double standard issue.
If a white actor were to say that he only dated white women, many would not defend his right to “choice,” but would call him a racist.
The rules should stay the same, that’s all.
— Ada (@ada_akpala) September 16, 2022
If a white man said he only dated white women, that would be racist. And no one is saying it’s racist. Double standards.https://t.co/hXmiVdJ8IV
— Perika Gievski (@GievskiP) 15 September 2022
Others defended Boyega, saying his comments were not controversial.
I can’t believe that John Boyega, a black man, said he prefers to date only black women.
— Jermaine Jupiter | workDad
(@JermaineJupiter) 17 September 2022
I hope John Boyega doesn’t give up. Black men should loudly and proudly declare their love for black women.
— Iyanu (@TheConsciousRN_) 17 September 2022
I don’t know why people are so mad at John Boyega. She said she prefers black women and that’s why she decided to go. Bru literally said it 4-5 years ago on a talk show lol.
Let this guy enjoy being black, dammit!— GullahGoddessChel
(@Curls4DaCulture) 17 September 2022
Boyega talked about his relationship preferences in an interview with SiriusXM’s Bevelations earlier this year, saying that he prefers dark-skinned and thin partners.
“Brown and thick, melanin levels are over 75 percent. Thick level. You should look good,” he said.
Source: Breitbart
