Colorsim

Colorism is a sensitive topic in Kenya. However, it is not a uniquely Kenyan problem , it cuts across all countries be it in Nigeria, South Africa , Rwanda, India. and the USA. Colorism manifests in various forms and shapes such as race , ethnicity and classism .

Colorism has its roots in racism. as it involves giving preference , value and perceived superiority to people based on their skin color . For example : in Rwanda, the colonial administrators gave power to the Tusti, because they were lighter than the Hutus. The Tusti were given more privileges over the Hutus . The Tustis were made to perform simpler tasks while the Hutus forced to do grueling tasks . This led to the evolution of a complex social superiority among the ethnic groups in Rwanda .

As slavery came to an end , colorism gained momentum within the black community . Growing up the only people I saw in TV commercials were the light skinned ,it has not changed much to date. Commercial colorism is as a result of positive characteristics and attributes associated with light skin tones and the dark skin tones are judged negatively for their physical appearance.

I think we have normalized colorism to the extent that children growing up already know how to discriminate against each other based on their skin color. In schools and other social institutions, you will find children playing with the ones they feel “they look alike” . Teachers are more likely to severely punish dark skin students compared to the light skin student. I experienced these differences in treatment in the schools I attended .

The beauty industry has only started embracing other skin tones , before dark skin tones only had the option of bleaching . However, the idea of what is considered beautiful continues to be deeply rooted in racism ideologies. The “whiter” people are fully represented in the beauty industry and are more likely to get opportunities with bigger brands .

Then there is the racial bias built technology which has been shaped by historical prejudice and inequalities . Computer programs have been used to perpetuate the colorism problem. A 2016 beauty pageant used AI to select winners and the algorithm built strongly preferred lighter skin tones . Soap dispensers are more likely to be nresponsive to hands that are dark skin due to the algorithm that is set to recognize “whiter” skin .

As you unconsciously swipe through the filters in your phones. as a dark skin tone you will realize it is almost impossible to get a filter that will comfortably accommodate you . The light skin tone are more likely to find variety of filters that suit them making the dark skin under presented .

Lastly , in Hollywood you will find roles meant to portray dark skin characters being played by the light skin characters .This is also evident in most African entertainment industries where the. light skin tone get opportunities even instances where the dark skin is more qualified.

Colorism , affects our thoughts and shapes the attitudes we have towards others . Therefore people. have to emancipate. themselves from mental slavery against discriminating. the dark skin over the light skin lest they will remain their own slaves.

WM