As a single parent, venturing into the dating world presents unique challenges. Juggling childcare arrangements and carving out time for dates can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to ensure that your time is well spent. In 2017, the dating landscape is notably different from previous years, influenced by various socio-political factors that can significantly impact compatibility.
For those of us re-entering the dating scene, the questions we pose to potential partners have evolved. While differences in taste—like music preferences—can be harmless, other subjects are non-negotiable.
Political Alignment: Who Did You Vote For?
This question should be at the forefront of your initial conversation. If your date supported the current administration, it’s wise to reconsider your time together. Engaging with someone who backs divisive policies can lead to unnecessary conflict, and you certainly don’t want to invest in a relationship fraught with fundamental disagreements.
Social Justice Issues: Black Lives Matter
It’s crucial to gauge your date’s stance on social justice. If they dismiss or respond with “all lives matter” in any context other than as a joke, it’s time to cut the conversation short. This issue is not debatable—if someone doesn’t recognize the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement, they likely won’t grasp other critical social issues either.
Feminism: Understanding Intersectionality
While you don’t need to wear a feminist slogan, it’s essential for your date to recognize that women, particularly women of color, continue to face systemic inequality. A man should demonstrate a commitment to supporting women’s rights, not just because they have female relatives but because they understand the importance of equal treatment for all.
Same-Sex Marriage: Respect for All Relationships
If someone believes that marriage should only exist between a man and a woman, or has issues with same-sex couples raising children, it’s best to part ways. Love is love, and a child’s wellbeing should be the priority, regardless of the parents’ genders.
Reproductive Rights: Abortion Access
It’s imperative to discuss reproductive rights early on. While personal beliefs about abortion are valid, imposing those views on others is unacceptable. If your date supports policies that restrict access to reproductive healthcare, including defunding organizations like Planned Parenthood, it’s a clear sign to move on.
Military Spending and Veterans’ Care
If your date advocates for increased military budgets while neglecting the needs of veterans, it’s a serious red flag. Supporting those who have served should go hand in hand with military funding.
Racism and Immigration: A Zero-Tolerance Policy
Addressing broader issues of racism is essential. If your date expresses support for discriminatory policies, such as building a wall to keep immigrants out or generalizing about refugees, they are not someone you want to keep in your life.
Having a preference for certain music may be trivial, but when it comes to fundamental human rights and social issues, you need to stand firm. If you find yourself consistently clashing with potential partners on these critical topics, consider this unique app that connects you with people who share your values and interests.
In summary, as a single parent navigating the dating scene, it’s vital to prioritize discussions on political and social beliefs early on to ensure compatibility. For more insights on home insemination and other family-related topics, check out this post on intrauterine insemination and explore this resource for additional guidance.