Sisters of the Yam

rudolove:

SENEGAL SKIN LIGHTENING // Zed Nelson published in Marie Claire Russia

One of the worst consequences of racism is the point when the black people start thinking less of themselves because of the color of their skin. It is only natural, since everywhere they look there are white or at least whiter people of them as exponents of a better life, better jobs, etc. White people (and especially white woman) is set as a beauty standard and all the black girls are trying their best to look more Caucasian. It is really disturbing and sad, but these are the consequences of the lifestyle and propaganda against the black people that was active for many years.

Senegalese women argue that paler skin helps them stand out from the crowd, and the majority of Senegalese men say they prefer women with lighter skin. In the photo: a dermatologist in Dakar keeps photos of people with severe consequences of using this sort of tools for skin whitening. She says that people are aware of the risk, but continue to use these products, and then come to her with the consequences.

(via forgetpolitics)