Bismillah al-Rahman al-Raheem
Assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,

I have posted this question previously, however I listed it as private, and I was unable to delete the post.
I am seeking Islamic guidance regarding a potential marriage situation and would sincerely appreciate advice from a Shia Fiqh perspective. I am a 24-year-old Shia Muslim woman born in 2002. I live in Minnesota. I follow the Marja‘ Ayatollah Sistani (may Allah protect him). For context, I am currently pursuing higher education and intend to complete a master’s degree. A young man (21 years old) born in 2004 has expressed serious and respectful interest in marriage. He is a Shia revert of approximately three years, is consistent in fulfilling his religious obligations, and is known for good character and manners. He is employed full-time as a respectable machining engineer, financially responsible, owns a vehicle, and lives separate from his father, but still has a good relationship with him. He was informed of my medical condition (multiple sclerosis) prior to expressing interest and remained supportive and consistent thereafter.
Approximately two years ago, he attempted to approach my family in a respectful manner by contacting my mother to express his intention. My father is largely absent from my life and not actively involved in my upbringing. My mother declined the man, and did not answer his calls. This is not due to concerns regarding his religious commitment or character, but due to the following reasons:

• His ethnicity
•  His level of formal education (entering the workforce after high school rather than pursuing university)
• A two-year age difference
• Physical attributes (such as height, and ethnic features)
• Her belief that he is “not my type,” despite my own assessment and comfort
• Her assertion that he is “immature,” despite having not spoken to him 
• Her assumption that I would be embarrassed to be with him in the public

 
I have remained patient for two years, praying her heart would soften. However, when I raised the topic again this month, she expressed the exact same fears and objections, confirming that further patience will not change her stance and only prolongs my distress.
She has advised me to delay marriage and keep potential options open, despite this being the only individual I have personally found suitable to mention for marriage. She also expresses anger towards me for not choosing someone that is more “suitable”. Additionally, she has threatened to involve my father, which has caused me emotional distress.
I would also like to mention that my father, due to his absence, is not well-informed about my life and circumstances, not even my health issues. This is because he has a history of misrepresenting me and my mother publicly, including an instance where he embarrassed me in front of other families by claiming that I demanded an expensive car from him, this is confirmed by witnesses (friends’ families). This was despite the fact that I already owned my own vehicle at the time through my own work and savings. 
I have been financially independent since the age of 17, and I am currently paying for my classes. Due to this pattern, I am concerned that my father’s involvement may cause reputational harm rather than benefit.
I have tried to remain patient, respectful, and prayerful, and I continue to ask Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) to guide all involved. However, I am uncertain how to proceed Islamically when a parent opposes a proposal for reasons that do not appear to be grounded in deen or character, and when another parent’s involvement may result in harm.

I am aware my mother’s say in my marriage is not required, but I do want to practice my right for marriage to someone I believe is a great choice for me, while respecting her opinion. I do not think it is fair for me to further delay marriage after waiting 2 years, I am not sure what I can do here.

1. How can I balance respect for my parents with my right to marry a suitable person?
2. If parental involvement causes harm or misrepresentation, what is permitted for a woman to protect herself?
3. If a suitable proposal is delayed without valid Islamic reason, what steps may I take according to Shia Fiqh?
I ask Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَ تَعَالَى) to reward you for your time and guidance, and I sincerely appreciate any advice you are able to offer.
Wa assalamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh