The Chicago Tribune recently reported that African American singles are stepping out of their comfort zones when it comes to finding a suitable mate:
But now a different conversation is emerging in the black community. Rather than fixate on the bleak statistics, some have started working to bring singles together in ways once considered taboo by many African-Americans.
They are orchestrating matches on Twitter and Facebook. Some are hosting meet-ups and living-room gatherings for black singles to mix and mingle. Others are luring singles into their lounges for candid conversations about how to date and how to find true love.
This grass-roots movement is forcing some singles out of their comfort zones and into territory once viewed with trepidation by many African-Americans. Traditionally, African-Americans shied away from professional matchmakers and relationship coaching, said Paul Carrick Brunson, a Washington-based matchmaker.
“I’m very, very excited and happy to see that African-Americans are finally receiving “... dating services,” he said. Brunson said interest in his work as a matchmaker has grown steadily over the past two years.
“There’s a strong reception now and there are a couple of reasons why. Every ethnicity is obsessed with relationships. We all have the drive to love and relationships are an integral part of our lives. (African-Americans) are now embracing new strategies because of all the dialogue around relationships,” Brunson said.
Have you seen an increase in matchmaking, speed-dating, or social media hook-ups in your social circles?