Written by: Deilen Michelle Villegas, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Colorism, a form of discrimination based on skin color, persists as a deeply rooted issue within various communities around the world. It is a conversation that often gets dismissed and overlooked but heavily impacts the Black and Brown communities. The world is shifting to bring to the forefront the long-term impact colonization and slavery have had on people of color. We frequently address the enduring consequences of colonization and slavery on the educational, financial, and healthcare disparities experienced by people of color.
However, we seldom engage in conversations about the profound internal divisions that have been fostered within these communities by these systemic injustices. These divisions persistently afflict both Black and Hispanic communities in our present times. Unfortunately, this division does not only occur in places of work, or education, but, it is heavily found within the families from which individuals come. This article aims to shed light on how colorism impacts the treatment of individuals within Black and Hispanic communities by their people, in hopes that by examining the harmful effects of colorism and fostering a deeper understanding, we can work towards dismantling this divisive phenomenon.
The historical roots
To properly address Colorism, we must trace its roots back to colonialism and slavery, where systems of oppression enforced a hierarchy based on skin color. Lighter skin tones were often associated with privilege, while darker skin tones were subjected to marginalization and devaluation. These historical injustices have perpetuated the persistence of colorism within communities of color, influencing attitudes and behaviors toward individuals with different skin tones.
This privilege that was given to the lighter skin-toned individuals often included being able to stay or sleep in the Slave Owner's home, being used as a Nanny or Wet Nurse for the children, and doing household chores. While never exactly treated equally as their white counterparts, the treatment was significantly better than that of those individuals born of darker skin tones and more afro-centric features who were forced to work in harsh conditions and treated inhumanely. This automatically caused a division amongst people of color, because it created a culture of those who were light-skinned were preferred and felt a sense of being better than their darker-skinned family or community members.
Over time, this mindset continued in the Black and Hispanic communities long after slavery ended. Children born into Black or Hispanic families who were light-skinned were often the favorite children and treated better than their darker-skinned siblings. They would receive preferential treatment, more support, and oftentimes, more opportunities than the darker-skinned family members. This further caused division and mistreatment between family members and other members of the community.
Internalized bias and self-esteem
Colorism leaves lasting impacts on individuals' self-esteem and psychological well-being. Those with darker skin tones often face prejudice, derogatory comments, and exclusion within their communities. The belief that lighter skin is more desirable and associated with beauty and success can lead to internalized bias and self-esteem issues. This detrimental cycle perpetuates harmful beauty standards and hinders individuals' self-acceptance and self-worth.
The United States upholds lighter skin and more Euro-centric features as the prevailing beauty ideals. In a country where Black and Hispanic communities already grapple with numerous oppressive systems hindering their progress, even seemingly trivial factors like the shade or complexion of their skin can significantly impact their quality of life. This places considerable pressure on individuals with darker skin tones and more Afro-centric features to undergo radical transformations to conform to the favored standards of lighter-skinned counterparts.
In contemporary society, it is evident that many women of color resort to extreme measures such as straightening and lightening their hair, using potentially harmful bleaching products and chemicals to lighten their skin, and undergoing plastic surgery to alter their facial features and body shapes to align with Eurocentric beauty standards. These efforts are driven by the desire to be deemed more desirable and respected within their communities
People with darker skin tones are frequently labeled as unattractive and less desirable, often facing societal mistreatment, including discrimination from within their communities. These negative experiences can lead individuals to internalize feelings of self-disdain and low self-esteem. Consequently, in an already intricate world, individuals with darker skin are more prone to experiencing elevated levels of depression and anxiety compared to their counterparts within their communities.
Social and economic disparities
Colorism not only impacts individuals at a personal level but also contributes to the perpetuation of social and economic disparities. In certain communities, individuals with lighter skin tones often receive preferential treatment in areas such as employment, education, and relationships. This bias can restrict opportunities for those with darker skin tones, resulting in unequal access to resources and the perpetuation of socioeconomic disparities within these communities.
Given the current lack of diversity in workplaces and educational institutions, lighter-skinned individuals still enjoy an advantage when it comes to being preferred by certain employers or schools when selecting from members of the Black and Hispanic communities. Lighter-skinned individuals tend to be prioritized to represent the minority group, become the public face of an organization and are typically considered before their darker-skinned counterparts.
The effects of Colorism are visible across various aspects of everyday life, influencing the success of films or productions based on the racial makeup of the cast and the quality of service received at certain establishments. Darker-skinned individuals are more likely to face challenges such as being denied financial loans, being subject to higher APR rates, and having to pay more for the services they receive.
Impact on relationships and community dynamics
Colorism can strain relationships and foster divisions within families and communities, creating an environment where individuals may feel compelled to conform to specific beauty standards in pursuit of acceptance and validation. This dynamic can result in tension and resentment among family members and friends. Furthermore, colorism can perpetuate prejudice and stereotypes within communities, impeding solidarity and hindering progress toward collective empowerment.
Within Hispanic communities, a saying exists, 'Adelantar la Raza,' which translates to 'Improve the Race.' This concept is often instilled in Hispanic boys and girls from a young age, implying that marrying someone with lighter skin and more European-like features is desirable. This form of mindset programming teaches the younger generation that being black is undesirable, and that having dark skin and tight, curly hair is considered inferior. Hurtful slurs are sometimes used within Hispanic communities to describe their darker-skinned members, drawing parallels to derogatory comparisons like 'monkeys.' This mindset can be traced back to the historical impact of colonization in Latin America and Caribbean Hispanic countries, where light skin was valued. In these communities, individuals with tighter or kinkier curls are often told they have 'bad hair.'
In Black communities, young girls and women are frequently subjected to hot comb hair treatments and relaxers from a young age, even at the risk of burns and scarring, as a means to manage and conform their hair to socially accepted standards. Even today, black women continue to face workplace challenges, as wearing their hair in natural protective styles without straightening is often perceived as unprofessional.
How do we challenge and overcome colorism?
Overcoming colorism requires a collective effort toward education, awareness, and challenging ingrained biases. Community leaders, educators, and influencers play a pivotal role in promoting discussions about colorism and its harmful effects. By fostering conversations that challenge beauty standards and encourage inclusivity, we can promote acceptance and appreciation of all skin tones within these communities.
Representation matters in dismantling colorism. Media, entertainment and the arts have a responsibility to showcase a diverse range of skin tones and celebrate the beauty of all individuals within Black and Hispanic communities. By highlighting stories and narratives that embrace the richness and diversity of these communities, we can counteract harmful stereotypes and promote inclusivity
Recognizing the intersectionality of identities is crucial when addressing colorism. Individuals face overlapping experiences of discrimination based on factors such as gender, class, and ethnicity. Understanding the complexities of these intersecting identities allows for a more comprehensive and inclusive approach to combating colorism.
Colorism remains a persistent issue within Black and Hispanic communities, impacting individuals' treatment by their people. By acknowledging the historical roots and harmful effects of colorism, we can work towards dismantling this divisive phenomenon. The tension between the Black and Hispanic communities can also be alleviated by acknowledging the shared ancestry that many of us have, stemming from colonization and slavery. This approach can foster greater connections between the communities, promoting an understanding of the fundamental similarities found in our cuisines, cultural traditions, musical influences, healing practices, and spiritual beliefs.
Through education, challenging biases, promoting representation, and embracing intersectionality, we can foster inclusive communities that celebrate the diverse beauty within Black and Hispanic cultures. It is only through collective efforts and ongoing dialogue that we can dismantle colorism and foster true unity and empowerment.
For more information on the impact of Colorism in communities of Color check out the links below:
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Deilen Michelle Villegas, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Deilen Michelle Villegas, Ph.D., is a distinguished metaphysician and the visionary founder of The Shamanic Goddess, LLC—a prestigious Holistic Health and Wellness Consulting and Holistic Life Coaching enterprise. Her work is a profound exploration of the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, dedicated to elevating individuals towards holistic well-being, success, and happiness.
As a renowned CREA Global Award Winner, Dr. Villegas is a Board Certified Holistic Health & Wellness Practitioner and Holistic Life Coach, specializing in Trauma Recovery, Behavioral Health, Mindset Transformation, and Somatic Healing. Her extensive list of credentials, including being a Board Certified Holistic Mind-Body Practitioner, Advanced Holistic Herbalist, Master Hypnotherapist, Master Practitioner of NLP, Reiki Master Practitioner, Life and Trauma Recovery Coach, and Master of Cannabis and CBT Practitioner, showcases her holistic approach to healing and transformation.
With over 16 years of experience in various medical fields, including Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Oncology, and Urgent Care, Dr. Villegas has enriched her insights into the human experience. Her academic accomplishments include a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership, an Msc.D in Natural Medicine, and an M.Sc. in Complementary & Integrative Medicine, forming the bedrock of her metaphysical exploration.
Furthermore, Dr. Villegas is an active member of multiple organizations dedicated to the well-being of individuals, including NAHSE (National Association of Health Service Executives), ForbesBlk, HPOC (Holistic Professionals of Color), ANZMH (Australian and New Zealand Mental Health Association), Society for Health Communication, AADP (American Association of Drugless Practitioners), and IHA (International Hypnosis Association). Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to holistic health, making her a true metaphysician devoted to addressing mental and physical health disparities within marginalized communities. Through the application of Qualitative and Quantitative Research, she seeks to uncover the roots of these disparities and effect lasting change, making her a champion for holistic well-being on a global scale.
