Updated: June 3, 2020
Originally Published: January 5, 2018
Nearly 150 years after the abolition of slavery, the repercussions continue to resonate within the Black community, particularly among Black women. Issues such as colorism and sexual violence, prevalent during the era of slavery, remain deeply embedded in society today.
The concept of intergenerational trauma traces back to the moment our African ancestors were forcibly taken and brought to this land. Like many in the Black community, I remain unaware of the brutalities inflicted upon them during the Middle Passage and upon their arrival. However, I feel the weight of their suffering etched into my very DNA.
The internalization of colorism—a legacy of the plantation system—has influenced our perception of beauty. Historically, lighter-skinned individuals were favored, often occupying roles within the “Big House,” while those with darker skin worked in the fields. This dichotomy ingrained a belief that lighter skin was inherently superior, a perception that continues to plague us.
Every Black woman carries a narrative shaped by these harmful ideals. In my family, lighter-skinned women are often viewed as the epitome of beauty, while darker-skinned women face derogatory judgments. This bias often impacts women more acutely than men. We are pressured to conform to standards of beauty that starkly contrast with our African heritage. Rather than valuing our full lips, textured hair, and rich skin tones, we are frequently told we are “too black,” our features “too pronounced.”
I recall my paternal grandfather’s indifference towards me and my siblings. When I inquired about it, my father revealed that he held a disdain for dark-skinned individuals, a sentiment that meant he could not accept three of his four children. Out of his 14 grandchildren, only the lighter-skinned ones received his affection.
Colorism also permeated my maternal family. An aunt of mine, blessed with “good hair,” never hesitated to criticize my own thick, coarse hair. I vividly remember an incident at the age of 30 when she remarked on the texture of my hair and pulled it without my consent. That was the moment I stood up for myself, asserting my right to be treated with respect.
Even older generations have not escaped this stigma. My great-aunt, born in 1903, gravitated towards her lighter-skinned relatives, often ignoring her darker kin. Her grandchildren were acutely aware of her favoritism, a reflection of the pervasive colorism that persists within families. Furthermore, some of my male cousins have chosen to marry white women while disparaging Black women as “too angry” or “too bossy.”
My own ancestry reveals a complex lineage; according to my DNA results, I am 15% Western European, including Irish and English roots. I suspect at least one instance of biracial ancestry stems from a history of sexual violence, as Black women were often subjected to the predatory behavior of white men. The societal perception of Black women as hypersexual is a lasting stain born from this historical trauma. Many white men I encounter perpetuate this stereotype, making objectifying comments that reduce us to mere conquests.
Moreover, the treatment of Black women by Black men reflects the legacy of slavery. Witnessing the historical exploitation of Black women, many Black men have internalized these behaviors. Since my early teens, I have been subjected to unwanted advances and inappropriate comments from men in my community, often leaving me feeling vulnerable and fearful.
One of my friends shared a heartbreaking story about her 11-year-old sister, who was sexually abused by her mother’s boyfriend. When she confided in her mother, she was dismissed and labeled as “fast.” The cycle of abuse continued unchecked, highlighting the dire need for change.
The enduring impacts of slavery continue to devalue Black women, rendering us unprotected and unloved by many. We must confront these issues and advocate for a society that recognizes our worth.
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In summary, the effects of slavery continue to permeate the lives of Black women today, influencing societal perceptions and personal experiences. Addressing these issues is crucial for fostering a society that values and protects all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities.