Resources
I believe that it is important to acknowledge that there is work being done to address these prejudices and biases embedded in South Asian and American beauty standards and their connection to colorism because it highlights the progress being made towards greater inclusivity and representation. It shows that there are individuals and organizations actively working to combat discrimination and promote diversity.
By acknowledging these efforts, we can encourage others to join the fight against discrimination and promote diversity. It is important to note that progress takes time, and there is still much work to be done in the beauty industry and society as a whole. However, recognizing the efforts being made towards greater inclusivity and representation is a step towards positive change. We should continue to push for more progress and hold ourselves and others accountable for promoting diversity and inclusivity in all aspects of life.
South Asian Focused Organizations and Initiatives in the United States
Brown Girl Magazine: This is a digital platform that amplifies the voices and experiences of South Asian women, including issues related to colorism. They feature articles, interviews, and personal stories that explore the impact of colorism on South Asian communities in the United States and abroad.
The Brown Beauty Co-op: This is a beauty retailer in Washington, D.C. that aims to promote more inclusive beauty standards and provide a space for people of all skin tones to find products that work for them. They feature a range of beauty products specifically designed for women of color, and provide education and resources to help combat colorism and promote self-love.
The South Asian Mental Health Alliance: This is an organization that provides mental health resources and support to South Asian communities in the United States, including addressing the impacts of colorism on mental health. They offer workshops, therapy services, and community events focused on mental health and wellness.
The #UnfairAndLovely Campaign: This is a campaign launched by South Asian students at the University of Texas-Austin, which aims to challenge colorism and promote self-love among South Asian youth. The campaign includes social media activism, educational resources, and community events focused on celebrating diversity and challenging beauty standards that exclude darker-skinned people.
Organizations and Initiatives In South Asia
The Dark is Beautiful Campaign: This is a campaign launched by Women of Worth, a Mumbai-based organization that aims to challenge colorism in India. The campaign promotes the idea that all skin tones are beautiful, and aims to raise awareness about the damaging effects of colorism on individuals and society.
Project Niam: This is a program launched by the NGO Swechha in Delhi, which aims to empower girls and young women through education and self-esteem building. The program includes workshops on self-esteem and confidence building, and provides girls with resources to combat colorism and other forms of discrimination.
The Palette Project: This is a project launched by the NGO Samaaj Scope in Kolkata, which aims to promote more inclusive beauty standards and challenge colorism. The project includes a photo series featuring women of different skin tones, as well as educational resources and workshops on colorism and self-esteem.
The Skin Stories: This is a project launched by the NGO Embrace in Mumbai, which aims to create a more inclusive and diverse representation of beauty in India. The project includes a photo series featuring women with different skin tones and backgrounds, as well as educational resources and workshops on colorism and self-esteem.