What messages about skin tone did we grow up hearing? What messages are we passing down to the next generation?
Many people recognize racism, but do not realize that colorism is different. The American Psychological Association (APA) refers to racism as prejudice, discrimination, and systems of inequality based on race. However, colorism is a form of prejudice based on skin tone. It can happen within the same racial or ethnic community and places greater value on lighter skin while attaching negative assumptions to darker skin.
Colorism has deep historical roots in Latin America. During European colonization, social hierarchies connected race, ancestry, skin color, and social status. Indigenous and African-descended communities were often lower status, while European ancestry and lighter skin were associated with greater privilege. Over generations, these ideas became intertwined with beauty standards and were passed down within families and communities. Although society has changed, some of these attitudes remain. Research from the Pew Research Center shows that skin color continues to influence how many Latinos view opportunities and their experiences in everyday life.
So, what can we do to challenge these ideas and create a more inclusive community?
- Be mindful of our words. Think about comments such as, “Don’t stay in the sun too long, you’ll get too dark,” or “Improve the race” (“mejorar la raza”). These messages reinforce the idea that lighter skin is more desirable.
- Celebrate beauty in every shade. Support media, businesses, and organizations that represent diversity. Beauty comes in every skin tone, hair texture, and facial feature.
- Teach children the value of diversity. Kids start noticing differences in people from a very young age. We can shape how they understand those differences by praising qualities like kindness, confidence, and character, instead of appearance. Also, use books, toys, shows, and other things they encounter to reflect people with a variety of skin tones and backgrounds.
Hillary Aponte-Chimelis, LPC, PMH-C, R-PLC, CPD
Emotional Compass
4641 Pottsville Pike, Suite 101B
Reading, PA 19605
Phone: 484-509-1038
EmoComp.com
support@EmoComp.com
