In this episode, Dita and Dajana approach the controversial subject of dating/marrying outside of the Albanian culture. In this highly requested topic, Dita and Dajana approach the topic from both points of views which is: the comfort and familiarity of dating/marrying within the culture, and the acceptance and beautiful expansion of the culture that is a result of dating/marrying outside of it. They read out an email sent from a listener who shares her story of dating a Latino male in secret for five years and how it has affected their relationship in the past, and asks for guidance on how to approach this inevitable topic with her family as she is ready to have a high-level commitment with him in the future. Dita and Dajana share their own dating experience with non-Albanian men and explain why they themselves avert from dating Albanian men. They discuss the pro’s and con’s that come with this. They dissect the very taboo subject by understanding why Albanians feel this insane pressure to date/marry within their community, as well as challenge this on-going and outdated formality by emphasizing the beauty that comes with having the liberty to date/marry WHO YOU LOVE without having to face any consequences such as being shunned, singled-out, talked about or-worst case scenario- being “disowned”. Why can’t we accept all people regardless of race, religion, sex, and culture and begin to determine who we have a high-level commitment with simply on how they love and treat us? Why is it so hard for Albanians to grasp the notion that “outsiders” are just as eager to share the Albanian culture and indulge themselves within it? The fear that Albanians have of “losing” their culture/traditions due to the community expanding its horizons only manifests the fear into reality by rejecting people who do decide to date/marry outside of the culture. How are they supposed to share their culture with their new-found partner/family if you shun them before they can begin to do so? Why can't Albanians use their rigid belief of a tight-knit family moral and apply that to people who date/marry outside of their community to welcome them with open arms and allow people who aren't Albanian to embrace the culture as well?
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