Interracial Friendly? (Atlanta, Dunwoody, Decatur: neighborhoods, school, professionals)

[joyo1966]

My boyfriend and I are thinking about a move to ATL. He is black and I am white. How is ATL with IR couples? We are thinking that we would like to decide where to move next summer.

[Samatva]

In almost every neighborhood, an IR couple (or same sex couple) would no issue at all. Like most big cities, the conflicts in neighborhoods are now related to economic status. While race and economic status are still connected, it is the $$$ and education, etc., that makes all the difference. In some of the more upscale neighborhoods, you might be met with some raised eyebrows, but it will be talk behind your backs, not confrontation. The intown areas of Atlanta and Decatur are heavily Democratic with many neighborhoods around 90% voting blue. You can access the Georgia Secretary of State's web site (Georgia Secretary of State Home) for precinct-level voting information as one of the best indicators of how well you will be received - the more Republican, the more wary you should be...

[RoslynHolcomb]

the more Republican, the more wary you should be...

I'm not sure I would say that. We're an interracial couple in Dunwoody, which is as near as I can tell pretty red. (During the last election the only Obama sign I saw was mine and my neighbor's across the street, but no one gave us any grief about it.) We haven't gotten so much as a surprised look or any type of negativity at all. We're out and about a good bit doing church and school-related stuff and everyone seems pretty welcoming.

[joyo1966]

Good to hear. We are both professionals, so sounds like we would not have a problem. Thank you

[beenhereandthere]

Stay within 30 miles of downtown on the Northside and avoid the Southside and you'll be fine. Otherwise folks my look at you like you're from outer space.

[FromCLTtoATL]

Originally Posted by joyo1966

Good to hear. We are both professionals, so sounds like we would not have a problem. Thank you

There is no predicting how every individual might react, but I think you would find most of the metro area very welcoming. And the few stares you might get may be out of simple curiosity, mild envy or just good ol' fashion checking out one or both of you rather than looks of disapproval or scorn. My prediction is y'all just ain't gonna be no big deal around here -- at least on that score!

Hope you enjoy Atlanta, and welcome.