The Social Work Concierge, LLC

By Leonica Riley Erwin, LMSW | The Social Work Concierge, LLC

🌻 Understanding the Wound: What Is Colorism?

Colorism is a form of discrimination based on skin tone—usually privileging lighter skin over darker skin within the same racial or ethnic group. Unlike racism, which targets people across racial lines, colorism happens within communities and families. It is often unspoken, deeply internalized, and rooted in centuries of colonialism, white supremacy, and media bias.

From childhood teasing to being passed over for opportunities, colorism sends a message: the darker you are, the less valuable you are. This message—sometimes subtle, sometimes explicit—can have long-lasting effects on self-esteem, identity, relationships, and mental health.

💔 The Emotional Toll of Colorism

Colorism creates a unique kind of pain. For many, the wounds start early—with comments like “stay out of the sun” or “you’re pretty for a dark-skinned girl.” Over time, these experiences can lead to:

Internalized shame or self-hatred Body image issues and identity confusion Anxiety and depression tied to appearance or acceptance Division within families and communities Trust issues in dating or professional spaces

These effects can be compounded by media representation that rarely affirms darker skin as beautiful, lovable, or worthy.

🌱 Healing Is Possible: A Path Forward

Healing from colorism is not just personal—it’s cultural. Here’s how we begin the journey:

1. Acknowledge the Impact Without Shame

Healing starts with naming the harm. It’s okay to grieve the pain of colorism. It’s okay to feel anger, sadness, or confusion. These emotions are valid. You are not imagining it, and your experience matters.

2. Challenge Internalized Messages

Start noticing the ways colorism shows up in your thoughts: Do you judge your appearance harshly? Do you admire lighter skin automatically? Practice reframing these messages:

“My skin is not too dark. It is rich, beautiful, and worthy.”

Affirmations can begin to disrupt decades of internalized bias.

3. Unlearn and Relearn Beauty

Surround yourself with imagery and voices that uplift darker-skinned people. Diversify your media, follow creators who look like you, and celebrate representation that includes all shades.

4. Have Honest Conversations

Talking about colorism can feel taboo, especially in families. But silence protects pain. When possible, name the dynamics with love, curiosity, and boundaries. Healing is communal work.

5. Seek Culturally Competent Support

Therapists who understand colorism and racial trauma can help process these wounds in a safe, affirming space. You don’t have to heal alone.

💛 Remember: You Are More Than Enough

Your skin tone does not determine your value. You are whole, worthy, and powerful as you are. The beauty standards that uphold colorism were never meant to honor your brilliance—and breaking free from them is an act of resistance and self-love.

At The Social Work Concierge, LLC, we support individuals reclaiming their worth and healing from generational and cultural trauma. Whether through therapy, workshops, or education, we’re here to help you evolve—not repeat—the patterns that have kept you in pain.

📞 Ready to Begin?

Book a consultation with Leonica Riley Erwin, LMSW today.

🌐 www.socialworkconcierge.com

📧 LeonicaErwinLMSW@gmail.com

🔗 Schedule here