via Shadeism on Vimeo.
This documentary short is an introduction to the issue of shadeism, the discrimination that exists between the lighter-skinned and darker-skinned members of the same community. This documentary short looks specifically at how it affects young womyn within the African, Caribbean, and South Asian diasporas. Through the eyes and words of 5 young womyn and 1 little girl – all females of colour – the film takes us into the thoughts and experiences of each. Overall, ‘Shadeism’ explores where shadeism comes from, how it directly affects us as womyn of colour, and ultimately, begins to explore how we can move forward through dialogue and discussion.
This is an extremely well done video by young filmmakers with a purposeful, global, and thoughtful look at shadeism/colorism/skin color bias. I believe this multicultural approach to shadeism is a great way to expose and alleviate the problem, though not the only way. Just as colonialism pitted different shades of people from the same culture against each other, it’s pitted different cultures against each other, making us believe we have to compete instead of cooperate.
I also think the video is very honest in its focus on women and girls. In a world that’s not only racist, but patriarchal as well, women have struggled the most with cultural standards of beauty.
I’m eager to see where this project goes. Watch and support however you can.
Peace and Love, Sarah L. Webb
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