I can’t believe I grew up wanting to be lighter.
Hating my hair, wanting a thinner nose and smaller lips.
I was afraid of getting “too dark” in the summer.
I was afraid of my Blackness.
That’s the power of Euro-centric beauty standards. That’s the power of racism. That’s the power of colonialism. Generations of people of color not knowing their worth. Not knowing their power. Not knowing their beauty.
But now I know. Now, I relish in it. I thank God for it. I’m proud of it.
Embracing every single feature. Giving thanks to my African and Indigenous ancestors. Loving my brown skin, full lips, coily hair and round nose.
That is my prayer for every Black and Brown little girl and boy in the world…Now more than ever — LOVE YOURSELF. KNOW THAT YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. DON’T LET ANYONE MAKE YOU THINK OTHERWISE.
Happy Black History Month today and forever.