Celebrity Rachel Lindsay Will Address Race in First Episode as The Bachelorette By Olivia Bahou Olivia Bahou Facebook Olivia Solomon is a New York-based writer and editor who covers all things fashion, lifestyle, celebrity, and pop culture. She was previously the Assistant Digital Editor for InStyle, and her work has appeared in many national publications. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on May 16, 2017 @ 03:30PM Pin Share Tweet Email Photo: Craig Sjodin/ABC via Getty Rachel Lindsay is making history as the first black Bachelorette, and while she insists that her season will be no different than any other, she will address race in her very first episode as the show’s leading lady. “I always say, ‘It’s something that should be talked about,’” she said in an interview with Entertainment Tonight. “I’m happy to address it. I’m honored to be the first [black Bachelorette]. With the guys, you know, if it’s something new to them, then I want to talk about it the same way that I [wanted] to talk to Nick about it: ‘Have you ever dated a black woman before?’” she said. VIDEO: 5 Surprising Celebs Who Love The Bachelorette “I’ll talk about my experiences as well. You know, it’s about me, too, but I don’t want it to be something that defines our relationship. But I think it’s something important to address.” As for Lindsay, she’s dated men both black and white. “I date everyone. I’m open to everyone. I’m hoping to see a cast that reflects that as well, and I’ve told [producers] that.” The Bachelorette's Rachel Lindsay Proves She's a Total Badass in New Promo Tune in to see what happens when Lindsay makes her debut as The Bachelorette on Monday, May 22 at 9 p.m. ET on ABC.