Experiences of colorism within gendered racial socialization

What is it about?

This study explores the socialization experiences of a diverse group of Black women. It is focused on their experiences of being a black person, a woman, and a black woman in American society. The article highlights the messages these women received during their upbringing and currently - specifically with regard to their appearance (complexion, hair length, texture, style). It also showcases their experiences as they accepted or rejected these messages during a critical period of identity development.

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Why is it important?

This work is important for a few reasons. First, it brings awareness to the fact that racial socialization can be gendered- that is, messages given to youth about what it means to be black are influenced by the gender of the recipient. Second, it acknowledges who participated in the promotion of beliefs that certain features have value and it reveals the impact that messages that endorse a colorist hierarchy can have on young women. This article is intended to share their experiences and to encourage individuals who interact with black women to consider the ways that they endorse ideas that lighter skin is better, only certain hair is acceptable for certain jobs, and consider a shift in view, language, and action. These individual actions will allow for a cultural shift where school policies that discriminate against young girls can not stand; where the natural hair is not considered unprofessional; where movies and magazines show positive images of Black women of all shades and shapes; where Black women can walk through the world, unapologetically, themselves.