What is Colourism?

“prejudice or discrimination against individuals with a dark skin tone, typically among people of the same ethnic or racial group.”This is experienced in everyday life, especially in the media (socials, television, and movies)

When and where did Colourism originate from?

In the United States, Colourism, like many forms of discrimination towards black people, stemmed from slavery. Slaves with lighter skin worked in houses whereas slaves with darker skin had to work in the fields. Another reason why lighter-skinned black people were favored was that often, they were the product of a white man raping a slave.

Why is it important?

t’s important to raise awareness so women can support women more often and call things like colourism out. It’s important for us as women to identify when somebody is being discriminated against, whether it is in a workplace, school, or elsewhere.

Written by Kenyah Smith (A BelEve Young Leader)