This issue of colorism has plagued Black communities around the world, in the Caribbean, Latin America, Africa, and North America. The debate still rages on as many believe that Black communities divide themselves based on skin tones with lighter skin tones (closer to European shades) possibly considered more beautiful. Consequently, in many circles light skinned women are often considered more beautiful. Hip hop culture specifically, is flooded with adoration of beautiful light skinned Black women. Commonly referring to them as Red Bones, Yellow Bones and etc. This has sparked controversy around the notion of self-hatred which is often linked to slavery, colonialism and the overall mis-education of the negro across the Americas.
However, there are many circles in which beautiful dark skinned women have been adored and praised as well. They are commonly referred to as Chocolate, African Queens and etc. The proverb, “the darker the berry the sweeter the juice” is often used in association with dark skinned women/people.
For Black men, darker skin tones are associated with manhood and imagery of hyper-masculinity. Such as thugs, gangsters, pimps and etc. Light skinned Black men are often associated with professionalism and at some times femininity. This is because skin tones have not only been racilized, they’ve also been gendered. Which is why darker skinned women and men face similar yet different experiences.
However, there are many members of the Black community that do not divide themselves based on skin tones. There is also an on going movement to put an end to the colorism in the Black community.
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