Fair skin or dark skin—what is the superior skin color to have? What makes having little melanin in our skin more ideal versus having more melanin? This trivial “issue” has been a cause for segregation, hate, violence, and discrimination, when in reality, it is something that we should accept. It is a prime reason for the diversity we have in this world and this diversity brings various forms of beauty that I appreciate immensely. If we all were born in a way that allowed us to conform to one color, it would be a true detriment in regards to the remarkable nature of our genetics. My skin color is a real-life portrayal of years of history and family lineage-- I would not trade it for the world no matter how often I get put down because of it.

We live in a world where ebony skin is considered too dark and pale skin is considered too light, but being somewhere in the middle is also a problem. Tanning beds, self-tanners, and bronzers are often used to achieve tanner skin and those with darker skin also use skin-lightening products. Health warnings are frequently ignored just to attain these standards that are set by society—standards that do not have a specific range or set point. If someone feels more beautiful by abiding by these skin regimens, then that is a personal decision that others will not understand-- if it is because one is “too dark” or “too pale”, what frame of reference is this regarding?

Aside from the differences between Caucasians and African Americans, lighter skin color is often desired in most Asian countries. This is an issue that many Asian women and men face regularly because of family members, friends, and even strangers. Casual remarks, snarky comments, and random insults are often given to those with darker skin, but why is this the social norm for people? Why is it that my darker skin is less beautiful than your fairer skin? Questions about which “particular” part of India are often thrown around as well, but who cares if I am from the north of India or the south of India-- I am of the Indian race, that is all. These generalizations are often made and are derogatory in nature rather than informative. Skin color varies throughout these countries regardless of what region you are from, so do not be quick to assume someone’s background.

Being proud of the skin you are in is the only way to deter anyone from viewing you as any less than they are, so keep doing you and stand tall against anyone who says otherwise. This is not limited to color; we need to learn to accept any "flaws" whether it comes to discoloration, dry skin, acne, or blemishes because it effects hundreds of people and is a normal part of life. Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and our skin is just one more reason to love the uniqueness of the human race as a whole.

“The real difference isn’t my skin. It’s the fact that I don’t find my beauty in the opinions of others. I’m, beautiful because I know it.”

- Winnie Harlow