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First Dates contestant criticised for claiming to be 'trans-racial'

(Channel 4)
(Channel 4)

This week’s First Dates offered up some brand new controversy and an online talking point when one contestant claimed to be ‘trans-racial’.

In a time where gender fluidity is becoming an increasingly common thing and making its way into mainstream discussion, some people are attempting to use this idea to transcend race.

Fans are often left divided on some of the characters we see on-screen, but can also come together when something heartwarming happens.

That wasn’t the case, however, when Ruth appeared on last night’s episode.

(Channel 4)
(Channel 4)

‘I think I relate more to black culture than my own,’ the white woman said, when she sat down in front of the diary-style camera to explain her lifestyle.

The Scottish dater said she believes she has ‘I got born in the wrong race syndrome’.

‘I am white but I feel more black inside probably.’

Her black date, 23-year-old Michael, didn’t mind talking about race over their meal but it prompted people on Twitter to hold her to task for her controversial comments.

Some even compared Ruth to American personality Rachel Dolezal, who is a white woman that ‘identifies’ as a black person. Her story has attracted plenty of criticism and people on social media made the connection.

Catch First Dates each Thursday, at 10pm, on Channel 4.

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