NEWS AFFAIRS 7 : WHERE EVERY STORY HAS IT'S AFFAIR!
Last updated on July 26th, 2024 at 06:33 am
Table of Contents
Introduction : Global Examination of Skin Colour
Human beings are the most amazing creatures ever to exist. They can code, climb mountains, create supercomputers, robots, and much more. However, there’s one aspect of life they still struggle with since birth: their skin colour. While fair-skinned individuals may not fully comprehend this issue, it’s a vast and prevalent concern in today’s world. Millions of dollars are spent on global examination of promising brighter, paler, whiter, fairer, and hairless skin, all in an effort to project an idealised image to others. This problem affects both boys and girls, but it particularly impacts girls the most. In this article, we will attempt to clarify the Fair White Skin Trap situation.
Why does this trend exist?
The obsession with fair skin is not new; it has been trending for decades. But why? The root cause lies in racism. Racism is still actively prevalent in many countries where people are discriminated against based on their skin colour and appearance. Going back six to seven decades, particularly in the Western world, skin colour was associated with social class. The lighter and whiter one’s skin, the higher their perceived status. Racism against people with non-white skin has led to an enduring battle with colourism (discrimination based on skin tone ), resulting in the loss of millions of lives.
What events have contributed to this desire for fair skin?
Several events have fuelled the desire to appear fair:
- 1. Hitler’s Obsession: Hitler’s obsession with fair-skinned, white people is well-documented. His disdain for other skin tones, alongside his disdain on blue eyes and blonde hair, influenced societal perceptions for years.
- 2. Colonialism: European colonialism spread stereotypes of the superiority of fair-skinned people, despite the evolved stance against discrimination in modern European nations.
- 3. Limited Immigration Countries: Countries with minimal immigration often exhibit rigid mentalities towards diversity. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in some Asian countries like South Korea , Taiwan , Hong-Kong etc.
- 4. Celebrity Influence: Celebrities, especially in Hollywood and Bollywood, have faced discrimination based on their skin colour during their careers. Despite their eventual success, they’ve shared stories of harassment and unequal treatment.
- 5. Societal Norms: While modern society actively speaks out against the fairness trend, many individuals still hold onto rigid beliefs regarding skin colour.
- 6. Social Media: Social media exacerbates insecurities about skin colour and body image, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
These are just a few examples of the factors driving the Fair Skin Trend. Additionally, the cosmetic industry plays a significant role, capitalising on insecurities to drive profits. In countries like India, where the population exceeds a billion, the obsession with fair skin is pervasive, leading to embarrassment and loss of self-esteem, particularly among girls. While cosmetic advertisements have intensified this trend, it’s crucial to realise that skin colour is beyond our control and should be embraced regardless.
There is a growing movement calling for more diversity and representation in beauty standards in reaction to this widespread occurrence. Particularly social media platforms have given underrepresented voices a forum to question conventional notions of beauty and promote diversity in all its forms. Protests advocating for acceptance of different skin tones, body positivity, and self-love have gathered momentum, igniting crucial discussions and bringing about significant change.
Globally, the fair skin topic remains prevalent, with the cosmetics industry experiencing exponential growth. However, it is crucial for individuals to recognise that skin colour is not within their control or anyone else’s. Embracing one’s natural skin tone, regardless of societal pressures, is essential for fostering self-love and acceptance.
