“It starts at home.” We’ve all heard this (or said this) and it speaks directly to the importance of addressing colorism in families of color. I have given tips on addressing colorism in families in a 2013 blog post, so I won’t write out a detailed transcript because you can see that original post. But I do want to share this recent Wednesday Workshop streamed live on July 22, 2020. Below is the basic outline, plus your weekly homework assignment and affirmations!
Common Themes of Colorism in Families of Color
- Families of color are often multicolored, which makes issues of colorism more pronounced.
- There are generational cycles of trauma that perpetuate colorism.
- Preferential treatment often creates rifts.
- Both darker skinned and lighter skinned people are susceptible to abuse but for different reasons.
- Sometimes it’s forces outside the home/family that cause harm or create rifts.
- Family dynamics are inherently vulnerable, which is why we have to be so vigilant, especially for children.
“No one has the power to hurt you like your kin.” -India Arie
India Arie, “Get it Together,” Voyage to India
Homework: Identify one family member you’d like to talk to about colorism and share this post, video, or other resource with them to jumpstart a conversation.
Affirmation: I learn from my history, but I also transcend it.