Colorism is defined as social, financial, and political preference based on skin color. Some African Americans could pass for white and would denounce their race in order to fit in with their oppressors. Racism is more than just white or black. The discrimination of darker skin tones exists within the same racial groups. In the black community, colorism is very prominent and has been perpetuated throughout history. From the blue vein test to the paper bag test, there have been countless moments of discrimination based on complexion through traditional institutions and organizations such as church and college sororities/fraternities.
From India to Asia, skin bleaching is common in order to achieve and keep a fair complexion. Individuals in the Caribbean islands are also known to bleach their skin. I use skin tone complexions painted with acrylic on canvas. The canvases are juxtaposed to the skin products sold in local beauty supply stores in black communities that insinuate the need for complexion change. The labels on the products are detrimental to psyche of a woman of color while perpetuating the stereotype that being lighter is preferred. Due to constant changes within the beauty industry, people range from wanting lighter to darker skin. Regardless of the shade of preference, some individuals may prefer a different skin tone in order to align with beauty standards.
