Colorism Vs Racism

Colorism refers to the social hierarchy and discrimination based on skin tone, where individuals with lighter skin are often privileged over those with darker skin within the same racial or ethnic group. This phenomenon can lead to varying degrees of social, economic, and political advantages, affecting personal relationships, self-esteem, and opportunities. Colorism can manifest in various forms, including beauty standards, media representation, and systemic biases, highlighting the complexities of identity and the intersections of race, ethnicity, and skin color.

Racism is a belief system that asserts the superiority of one race over others, leading to discrimination, prejudice, and systemic inequalities based on racial identity. It encompasses individual attitudes, institutional practices, and cultural norms that perpetuate the marginalization of certain racial groups while privileging others. Racism can manifest in overt actions, such as hate crimes and verbal abuse, as well as more subtle forms, such as implicit biases and institutional policies that disadvantage specific racial communities. The impact of racism is profound, contributing to disparities in education, employment, health care, and overall quality of life.