Despite facing racial slurs and derogatory remarks from fans of ABC’s “The Bachelor,” contestant Rachel Nance, who identifies as Asian and Black, remains unapologetically proud of her heritage.
Nance, whose background includes Filipino, Black, and Arab roots, recently found herself among the top contenders in the show’s 28th season. However, following an episode where her family showcased Filipino traditions, particularly lechon feasting and tinkling dancing, the internet backlash intensified.
Nevertheless, the 26-year-old contestant, in an interview with NBC News, affirmed that she refuses to downplay any aspect of her cultural identity. She expressed frustration with societal expectations that women of color should assimilate to make others feel comfortable, stating, “Being a woman, you’re really put in a box, and being a woman of color, you’re put in a smaller box, and we just can’t win.”
Nance’s determination to honor her family’s heritage prevailed despite the criticisms. She emphasized the importance of authenticity, declaring, “You just show who you are.”
The racial insults extended beyond cultural representation, with some viewers objecting to Nance’s interracial relationship with Bachelor Joey Graziadei. However, she adamantly defended her right to love freely, drawing strength from her family’s history of interracial unions.
Reflecting on her upbringing in Hawaii, where multiculturalism thrived, Nance highlighted the stark contrast upon encountering discrimination on the East Coast during college. Instances of hurtful remarks and stares served as painful reminders of racial prejudice.
When faced with the decision to speak out against the racist backlash on the show’s “Women Tell All” special, Nance admitted grappling with ingrained cultural norms that prioritize silence over confrontation. Ultimately, she recognized the need to challenge the status quo, viewing her platform as an opportunity to empower marginalized voices.
Nance’s courage in confronting racism resonates beyond her individual experience. With fellow contestant Jenn Tran set to become the first Asian American lead in the franchise’s sister show, Nance sees their collective visibility as a catalyst for broader representation and acceptance in Hollywood and reality TV.
In navigating the fallout from the show, Nance remains steadfast in her commitment to breaking barriers and amplifying diverse narratives.
