Do you have a definition of fascist you approve of, or would argue for? It’s absolutely true that some people throw around words as dismissal but that doesn’t mean we just all throw up our hands and say all words are meaningless.

Ultimately, the fight over ‘fascism’ is a fight to define ‘fascism.’ Having no definition is not a position to argue from. It’s ignorance. Arguing on behalf of ignorance is just noise. Even if no one else shares your definition, decide what it is, then argue for that.

Stress is the obvious answer. You won’t be able to guess what is causing it, so don’t start speculating. You can try to impress upon her that you are a safe outlet for that stress if you are able and willing to really be that for her, (Don’t just jump at it because you are curious. You might not like what comes from it, and it’s worse to pull back after the fact than to not offer at all.) or you can just be a source of stability while she works through it herself. Use your best judgement.

Been to various parts of the US. Met open racists on a few occasions. How likely you are to encounter them will vary by location, but your experience will most likely be great. There are many racists in America but most of them are not the kind who will choose some black tourist in the middle of the city to harass. You’d have to get pretty unlucky to get more than a snide look. Most of the people you will interact with as a tourist will be customer service reps, who, generally speaking, will be extremely cordial, even if they were to be the kind of American who has some issues with race. The one color Americans respect more than black or white is green. If you have money to spend, they’ll be only too happy to help you spend it. Cops will treat you better if you have money too, and not even in the sense of bribes. Dress like you have money and they’ll treat you like you do.

That said, non-racial crime is still very much a thing, especially against tourists, so keep to the safety of well lit, populated areas as much as you can unless you have a local to tell you where it’s safe.

Oh, and try some authentic Mexican food if you can. It’s delicious.