3 Simple Ways to Deal with Colorism on Television

Whether it’s TV shows, movies, commercials, or music videos, I’m sure you’re no stranger to colorism on television, but here I give you some insanely simple tips for dealing with it as families or just for your own sanity!

Whether you try all of these tips or just one, even a small change in your habits can make a difference in how you or your family is impacted by colorism on television.

Watch less.

Beyond the usual reasons people give you for watching less TV, cutting back on tube time can help you combat colorism in two ways:

  1. by reducing your exposure to the media’s obsession with fair skin
  2. by freeing up your time for activities that boost self-awareness and self-esteem.

Try to designate certain times for TV watching, and turn off the TV during other times.

Be selective.

Diversity is of utmost importance, but because of racism and colorism, we must be proactive about reinforcing positive images of people with dark skin and non-European features. Watch programming that consistently does this.

If it’s a sitcom or TV show, select one that not only casts dark skinned talent, but that portrays the characters as dynamic and fully developed, not as stereotypes and caricatures. The Mindy Project, for example, features a dark skinned female doctor of Indian decent. Look especially for shows that feature dark skinned girls of various ages rather than just dark skinned adults. Examples are The Bernie Mac Show and Everybody Hates Chris.

Also look for documentaries, special features, or award shows such as the Image Awards, Black Girls Rock!, and the Latin Music Awards that typically feature positive images of people of color.

Have conversations.

This is the most important strategy for dealing with colorism in the media, especially with children. TV provides lots of teaching moments and lots of conversation starters. Having direct and open discussions about race and colorism on television allows you to:

  • understand the perspectives of others
  • (re)frame what you see on television
  • reinforce affirmations of dark skin
  • contextualize/counter defamation of dark skin
  • create a safe space for others to speak their minds
  • be a role model

Here are few questions that might initiate dialogue:

  • What do you think about the lack of dark skinned characters on this TV show?
  • Do you think it’s accurate/fair to portray all the dark skinned characters as [insert stereotype here] in this movie?
  • Do you think this TV network portrays enough diversity in skin color?

These conversations may be awkward, and it may be difficult to get others to engage. Just remember that silence is acceptance.

Do you have any other tips?