Unpacking Swirl: Black Women, White Men, & Modern Love

We've all seen the viral "Black Wife Effect" trend on social media—side-by-side photos of white men before and after marrying Black women, often showing a dramatic glow-up. While meant to entertain, this trend also reflects a deeper social shift: the number of Black women entering interracial relationships has increased. According to a national study by the Pew Research Center, 24% of Black women are now in interracial partnerships—a notable rise compared to past decades. Despite these trends, Black women in interracial relationships with white men often find themselves navigating a minefield of social complexities.

To get into the research examining these phenomena, we are talking with University of Georgia Assistant Professor of Sociology Dr. Vanessa Gonlin, a widely published expert on this topic. Her areas of expertise includes racial identity(ies), colorism, and interracial relationships- with a particular focus on Black peoples and bi/multiracials. Dr. Gonlin is an award-winning educator, and has shared her expertise with organizations including WebMD, Macmillan Learning, and the International Women’s Forum to facilitate knowledge and connection across communities.

To learn more about this episode click here.