An extension to Arab anti-black racism is an aspiration to all that our former – and current – colonisers possess. Individuals aspire to what is powerful and rich, and the images of that power and wealth have light skin, straight hair, small noses, ruddy cheeks and tall, skinny bodies. That image rejects melanin-rich skin, coiled hair, broad or pointy noses, short stature, broad hips and big legs. So we, too, reject these features, despising them in others and in ourselves as symbols of inferiority, laziness, and poverty. That’s why the anglicising industries of skin bleaching and hair straightening are so profitable.

Confronting anti-black racism in the Arab world – Opinion – Al Jazeera English

Oh look, an in depth piece about Arab anti Black racism and its colonial history. With plenty of links to follow for even more in depth coverage.

But I am “stupid” for trying to understand the history that directly influences the reality I live in.


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