Are black students still color struck?

Posted by Ria, 25 Jun

Remember the Black White doll test in my previous posts? Well a friend of mine, knowing my fetish for race issues sent me an email on a similar, also controversial study, which was conducted on Black college students. The main focus was on skin tones… light skin or dark skin?

black_is_black_female.jpgApparently, this study, conducted by researchers from two Louisiana schools, has confirmed that complexion does matter. Going by history, light skin has been highly valued in the Black community. This is probably because in the early years of the 20th century almost all students at the some of the nation's prestigious historically Black colleges and universities were light-skinned.

Find your soulmate on AfroRomance

100 Black students between 18 and 19 years old of different color complexions (ranging from light to dark) were interviewed at a predominantly White university in the Midwest. The results? Well you guessed right.In comparison to the Black White doll test where kids picked the white doll as the beautiful one, 96% of the men preferred a medium to light complexion women and 70% of the women picked light-skinned men.

This clearly shows that most African-American college students still seem to find the light-skinned sistas and brothas better looking than their darker counterparts where dating or marriage is concerned.

One of the interviewed students said “I think that people are valued for their light skin. You can take this theory way back to the house slave mentality. I think a lot of people, because that was valued, were taught to value light skin. I think it is still an ongoing type of thing, and society really has not lost that altogether.᾿

Notice the choice of the word … VALUED? So does this mean that the darker skinned individuals are seen as lesser beings or of lesser value? Generally, the students involved in the study felt that the media is to blame for this preference for lighter skin. “When you talk to a guy, he thinks that he wants a perfect girl he sees on the videos. Usually, the women portrayed in the videos are light-skinned and have long hair,᾿ said another participant.

Jas M. Sullivan, an assistant professor of political science and African American Studies at Louisiana State University, also involved in conducting the study said that the purpose of the research was to test whether the color line continues to be a problem for the African-American community.

“We know that there has been a preference for lighter skin in the past as a result of racism, but we really wanted to know whether or not that preference still exists in the 21st century.᾿

Do you believe that the 100 students’ views represent most people’s preferences? And if so, why do Blacks generally tend to prefer lighter skin? Isn’t this ironic given the constant chants of ‘black is beauty’ and ‘color blind society’? And how then are we going to curb this segregation if we Black people apply the age old color conscious concept when choosing spouses within the black mainstream?

Tags: shades of black, color preference

75 responses to "Are black students still color struck?"

Leave a reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

  1. Posted: 09 Apr 08

    I am sorry everyone, but I must get this out! "Hi I am a black woman in her late 40’s. I am a dark carmel shade with light undertone. My husband is light light damn near white looks absolutely hispanic. He has been abusive to me for 7 years because he feels that he is better than me. Society tells him everyday that he is better than other black especially other insecure blacks. They treat him special and allow him special treatment which is one of the reason he treats me bad. I too am like those blacks I take his abuse because of his skin tone." I read a book about a similar experience. It was about a young girl who began to date a supposed all around good looking man, and everybody loved him for his "Hazel Eyes" and his "Fine Skin". The girl began to date him, and he treated her like she wanted to be treated. After a while though, he attempted to abuse her, and she got up, and walked out of the door. She told the Police, and the man was over with. She did have some problems, and she didn't talk to anyone, but she realized that NOBODY can put her down! I love how she handled it, and she really did do a great job becoming all she can be! The book is named Darkness Before Dawn. Always remember, the sky is the limit, and the sky is endless!

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  2.   yanna says:
    Posted: 07 Apr 08

    Who am i in this society? I know that i am a dark skin female and the most publicity that i will recieve is a main character in a bet movie or a porn star spot on a film or recording. Why is it that we as dark skin women are still expected to be the "dirty hoodrat" from around the corner. Yet, we are always viewed as the best strongest bays mother that the man wants to come home to

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  3. Posted: 03 Apr 08

    Koriee.. I am embarrassed to read your question? are you really a college student? I am of Kenyan origin and your grammar puts me to shame. I am sorry.. I do not know what school you claim to attend but if you are sincerely looking to meet someone, I think its important to be ableto communicate exactly what you are looking for. I apologize if I have offended you in any way, but I just needed to put it out there that this is not a reflection on "all of us". I get enough grief from being classified under Black/African Descent". Secondly.. your question has no relevance to the complexities of having a dark or light skin; but hey! Good Luck in finding whatever you are looking for Girl! It's a mush-pit out here but I know there a couple of wonderful men out there and I am sure there is one for you - Assuming that you intentions are sincere? SO GOODLUCK! Back to the forum - RIA - thanks for posting this question I think it's fascinating to read the different points of view. Personally, I love the skin am in!

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  4.   koriee says:
    Posted: 03 Apr 08

    I am so much glad to visit this web,my question is how can I make a friendship? which can led to serious marriage?am A kenyan am justin my first year of University if there is someone there who have theresame interest has I do then i will be hapy to get intought,thanks.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  5.   Ndeye says:
    Posted: 01 Apr 08

    I am a dark skinned woman who grew up believing that I was "a pretty dark girl". I think it's because people where constantly making that comment about me and my sister and because on many occassions I would be the be the girl that the most popular boy(s) in school were claiming or bragging was his girlfriend. I also remember lighter skinned girls treating me poorly, pulling my hair and saying I was wearing a weave because I did have long hair and according to the lighter skinned sisters, I was to black to have long hair. I haven't had problems dating or catching any kind of man I want from the darkest to the lightest and I am sorry if anyone feels insulted but the men and women that I do know of who are stuck on the light skinned thing tend to be of a class and mind-set that a consider unappealing and defintley not suitable to my high standards. Although, I didn't grow up feeling any less wanted are attractive because of my chocolate complexion, I have talked to a lot of sisters who say they were while growing up and still feel that they are treated very poorly by men becuase of their dark skin. My experience has been different. While I have not been treated poorly by men I can say that I have experienced negative interactions with lighter skinned sisters. It has always been one of them that makes it her business to tell me that people tend to be prejudice against dark skinned women. Maybe it's done as a reminder for me to stay in my place and not be too confident in myself. I don't know. But, I definitley believe that one of my friends was so right when she said, 'it's all good and fine when I light or carmel skinned sister is beautiful and feels good about herself but, it seems like they have a problem when we darker hued sisters are fine, beautiful and feel good about ourselves and that just looks like jealousy to me. Maybe it's the black women who have bought in to the ligheter better ideal and maybe it's these women who have or think they have benefited most from this ideal who are perpetuating this issue and maybe we need to get a grip and learn to respect and accept each other then we can ask for respect from our men

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  6.   Leah says:
    Posted: 19 Oct 07

    I am a very light skinned african-american teenager and I feel as if I have to work harder because im constantly being looked at for my fair skin.Alot of dark girls look at me as a threat. Its not fair.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  7.   Darklicious says:
    Posted: 16 Sep 07

    Kayla, you don't really understand the whole subject as your commnet was so off base. It's not that dark skinned women don't like their skin color, it's people in this world that try to make us feel like we're not as good as them. It just happens to be that lighter skinned women do feel this way and have always felt this way. This is something that has exsisted through the years and it's still instilled in some people. In the slavery time the lighter skinned slaves were always inside the house while the darker skinned slaves were in the field,this gave the lighter skinned slaves the idea that they were better. Regardless of what you or anyone else thinks, unfortunately it still exsists in 2007. Yes I believe in perferences too but I don't try to make anybody feel last attracted or less of a person. I can tell by your name that you are much younger than me, being 51, I have taken the real insults in my younger days so that maybe the young dark skinned young women can feel better about themselves. Just like our grandparents took the worst part of racism. I don't know your skin complexion but if by chance it is dark, you can enjoy being beautiful,gorgeous because the real bad insults have been directed at us dark skinned women that's older and we only hope that it's better for our beautiful dark skinned young women today. It would be nice if we as a race would focus on something else but unfortunately we don't and it is this attitude that keeps us hating one another. I have two sons(20 & 27) and I tell them to date whomever in fact I told them to date all of them because that is the way it should be.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  8.   kayla says:
    Posted: 02 Sep 07

    This is so wrong....darkskins think theyre better than us darkskin ppl and lightskin ppl think they re better than darkskin ppl either way there's both ugly and pretty from both sides..and yess the majority of guys and even my family members which are guys prefer light skin girls cause they think theyre more attractive im sorri but thats the truth and theyre all darkskins still i stick wid my theory which is it all depends on what the individual prefers.. its not that hard to get im so rry to all yall who are offended by your skin colour and letting what other ppl say affect yall

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  9. Posted: 23 Aug 07

    Contrary to Ringo's 7/24 message: www.obv.org.uk Rev Jesse Jackson to visit city The civil rights activist, Rev Jesse Jackson, is to visit Bristol. The Reverend will speak at a ticket-only event in the city, addressing topics including inequality and debt. Cllr Peter Hammond, the city council's deputy leader, said he welcomed the visit, which is scheduled for the week beginning 20 August. He said: "On behalf of all the people of Bristol I'd like to welcome Reverend Jackson to Bristol." "His visit is a significant boost to the work we are doing and will give confidence and encouragement to members of the black community," he said.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  10. Posted: 15 Aug 07

    I read something today on another site. A gentleman had made a comment on a scripture in the bible it said "he who finds a good wife finds a good thing" then he stated God didn't say a black wife or a white wife or a brown...you get my drift...wow.... it said it all for me!!!!

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  11.   Jade74 says:
    Posted: 14 Aug 07

    Thank you JordanMardan for the comment to Ringo. RINGO...AS AMERICANS AND SOME OF US THAT OR ON HERE...WE ARE NOT DEPRESSED IN WHATEVER MATTER U ARE THINKING.WE ARE MOSTED BLESSED PEOPLE THAT ARE ENVY BY MANY.RACISM EXIST WORLDWIDE NOT JUST IN AMERICA ALSO IN LONDON AS WELL.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  12.   AhTrini says:
    Posted: 14 Aug 07

    Thank you JordanMardan, your rebuttal to Ringo is very well appreciated. I laugh at his simplicity to such a complex matter of race relations and the reasons for prejudice. While most of us on here came for whatever reasons, it's naive to think racism does not exist, especially in upper class White society. That’s sooooooooooo laughable.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  13. Posted: 12 Aug 07

    Ringo: But as long as you keep seeing race first and foremost, you will never achieve an integrated society. Jordan: Unfortunately, colorism is not only a problem among Blacks but also with ALL other groups in the US and around the world. Most immigrants arriving in the US seem to avoid Blacks in order to be viewed favorably by whites. I have a number of peer-reviewed research articles and popular culture articles that examine "immigrants' behavior in regards to 'race'. " We've all been conditioned by the media, which includes textbooks, movies, commercials, radio, novels, etc., to think in a very narrow way, and it takes INTENTIONAL thinking, reflection, and actions to act counter to what the mainstream culture bombards us with on a daily basis. Google the following: Implicit Assumption Test. The test evaluates one's preferences in regards to "race", gender, etc. Ringo: I live in London and while things aren’t perfect it sounds a whole lot better than over there. Jordan: That could easily be disproved by simply googling "London and racism" or any other similar terms. Ringo:I came from a social housing background, and what I have achieved I have done so myself. Jordan: While I highly doubt that "race" has not played a role in "your" achievements, I have to ask: what does that have to do with the topic that began this thread?! Ringo: A common mistake is qualifications guarantee you something. WRONG! It’s how you can demonstrate you have or will apply them that count. Jordan: I would tend to agree, but for a different reason. For example, in the US workplace employers often look at one's GPA, but the GPA tells the employer nothing about "how will this potential applicant work with others" or "what type of leadership could we expect?" I would agree with the "ability to apply the knowledge." The TV show McGyver is an excellent example of the ability to apply what you know and do it creatively. But again...what does that have to do with the initial topic?! Ringo: The real enemy is not race it’s poverty and that affects all races over here. Jordan: Socio-economic status does play a huge role. However, if a poor white person was given the necessary membership fees, he/she could join most any country club in the US while poor People of Color could not. So although "race" is a social construction, it IS real (biological) for those who are racist. Ringo: and as a white man I can say whenever I have been in mixed relationships any eyebrow raising has not been from my family or friends but from her family or friends. Jordan: That's because.....generally-speaking.... middle- and upper-class whites do NOT publicly reveal their racist and/or prejudical beliefs. But once in private, their behavior is just the opposite. Those pretending in public will often find a private or indirect way to express their hatred, etc., such as writing someone out of their will, making private threats, etc. While you may not have experienced any of these, Ringo, your experiences are not the norm. In general, middle- and upper-class whites communicate in a passive or indirect manner in public. While middle- and upper-class Blacks may assume the indirect communication style while in public or at work, many revert back to a more direct style when at home or places that are predominantly African American. (there are exceptions to the rule) JordanMardan

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  14. Posted: 12 Aug 07

    cocokisses wrote: "Most pastors that are dark skinned have light skinned wives." Jordan: Why is ALL the attention on the dark-skinned person in the relationship?! Couldn't we also say "light-skinned women are attracted to dark-skinned pastors?!" JordanMardan

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  15.   lovingstar says:
    Posted: 12 Aug 07

    Darker skinned women are beautiful but in the society we live in, they seemed not as valued as other women. So when I see a successful woman of color, Naomi Campbell, Oprah, Secretary of State Ms. Condolezza Rice, Tyra Banks, Sanna Lathan, Kelly Rowland, Beyonce, Mo'nique, U.K.'s Freema Agyeman(Dr. WHO series 3), Gina Torres, Jennifer Rodriquez, Toni Braxton, Canada's Rachel Luttrell(Stargate Atlantis), Whoppie Goldberg, Wanda Stykes, Canada's Kandyse McClure(BattleStar Galatica), and my favorite: Renee Elise Goldsberry(ABC's One life to live). I look up to these women of color and I love them equvaliently because of their talent, their skill, their cleverness, their attitude. They make me proud of who I am and they make me proud of my sisters (Black, red, yellow, and white). Preference is shaped by both society and what we are innately attracted too. Black women are treated differently because of our skin tones just like white women are treated differently because of their age. Generally as a black woman I was taught by my Haitian mother, not to count on my looks because it fades, I was instead taught to count on my wits and to surround myself with positive people because in the end that is what really counts. Beauty comes with age in my family anyway.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  16.   Jade74 says:
    Posted: 02 Aug 07

    Good topic.I have read a book recently on this topic:"THE COLOR COMPLEX THE POLITICS OF SKIN COLOR AMONG AFRICAN AMERICANS" BY KATHY RUSSELL,MIDGE WILSON AND RONALD HALL.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  17.   truthebtold says:
    Posted: 28 Jul 07

    Has anyone ever thought that lighter skinned people are just better looking then dark ones? I know this is controversial but 96% preference is pretty conclusive and culture does not explain all of it being that skewed. They have done studies on female figures and me prefer the women also with a good hip to waist ratio. This test was done using the same female but of different proportions the men all found the one with the better proportions as pretty.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  18.   RayneDelay says:
    Posted: 28 Jul 07

    Laurie they won't do it, because that type of test was meant for black folks. That test was created by some racist white folks that wanted to show black folks as a bunch of mixed up knuckleheads. They already proved that many asians would and have gotten eye lid surgery to make them looke more "western" (white). White folks tan, increase lips, ass, breast and kink up the hair to get the looks of a black woman. Latin women repeately straighten and bleach there hair to look more anglo. Pretty soon we all will assimilate and morph into aliens from the planet Zotar.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  19.   Jade74 says:
    Posted: 28 Jul 07

    Very good thought for testing Laurie.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  20.   Laurie says:
    Posted: 27 Jul 07

    I was wonder if someone has consider doing a doll test on hispanic and white dolls and/or asian and white dolls would be very interesting to see what the results would be.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  21.   raymond says:
    Posted: 25 Jul 07

    hello i just want to sasy it doesn't matter what color is a person if they want to have some fun or going sailing then they have the right to say yes or no.i know some one who get tan and he don't mind because he love it and he is black i know i am that man so it really dopn't make any diff at all

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  22.   raymond says:
    Posted: 25 Jul 07

    hello i just want to sasy it doesn't matter what color is a person if they want to have some fun or going sailing then they have the right to say yes or no.i know some one who get tan and he don't mind because he love it and he is black i know i am that man so it really dopn't make any diff aty all

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  23.   Starthai says:
    Posted: 24 Jul 07

    I have one more comment, does anyone know why black males that are dark skinned do not get critsized as much as dark skinned woman. I always wondered if it is women who are not dark and can't tan to be as dark hating and keeping dark skinned sisters down, because I've never meet a dark skinned girl yet that is jealous of a light skinned girl, I think the most of us don't understand why we get pushed a side for lighter. I think dark skinned woman espcially love ourselves the way we are it's other people that put the BS in our heads that were not beautiful.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  24.   Starthai says:
    Posted: 24 Jul 07

    Hi guys, I'm feeling this topic it is a shame we still have color issues. Ringo thanks for letting me know how cool London is when I get out of school I might just move there:) Ok, First I would like to comment on Miss Ky I think you are very strong and confident, however I'm dark skinned and love it I like to hang out with other dark skinned girls not because I'm intimidated by light skinned, but because in a way I feel empowered walking along side another beautiful, intelligent, confident dark skinned woman. You will be surprised how people clinge because of that. Check it:) I have no problems with hanging with light skinned girls my best friend is light skinned, we moved to different cities and lost touch, but we adored each other I miss her. What I want to say to you Miss Ky is I respect you but if me loving to hang around other beautiful, dark skinned girls because I feel even more empowered makes me ignorant then so be it. Cindie you are so cool and right, these kids are confused I have a mixed child and when tennis comes on he says, "Mommy who are you rooting for the dark girl or the light one, of course I love Venus and Serena, but where is he getting this from, it seems as if he thinks dark is not good at first but when I say I'm cheering for Venus he changes his mind, he is 6 yrs old how did he learn to distinguish two talented woman from dark to light, the hell with society I never wanted to show him that, so now I have to mold what he hears and see, which is normal, but when it comes to color I hate that he has to go through the BS. I'm happy with myself, but it wasn't always this way I used to date only dark guys as well, but I didn't feel as valued with a Black guy like I do with guys outside of my raise and don't get me wrong there are bad guys in every culture. So to black guys when a dark skinned sister gives you no time of the day check yourself and see what you have created. To darklicious, sorry but your mom is stupid and her stupidity seems to not have any reflection on you - thank god. For her to say your'e not good enough for a white man, who says all white men are good she is the problem and not the solution. I don't date white guys, because of money or that they're better I feel that I am looked at and treated like a queen moreso with white men and all white men don't like black women so it makes it a lot harder for me. In any event I think all people go through things, but it seems that us dark skinned woman go through more, so respect the attitude when you see us coming lol...

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  25.   Ringo says:
    Posted: 24 Jul 07

    Scanning over most posts, I assume you are mostly Americans and boy how depressing. I don’t know how much is fact, how much is fiction and how much is bitterness but as long as you keep seeing race first and foremost, you will never achieve an integrated society. I live in London and while things aren’t perfect it sounds a whole lot better than over there. You will get groups on all sides who feel hard done by, but for every minority ethnic group complaining about discrimination against them you will find whites making the same complaint. I came from a social housing background, and what I have achieved I have done so myself. I studied hard and have got every job I have ever had through open and fair competition. No doors have been held open for me, no favours done. And crucially where I have failed I have never blamed my shortcomings on anything else – I have faced them not looked for excuses. A common mistake is qualifications guarantee you something. WRONG! It’s how you can demonstrate you have or will apply them that count. I know people who are bristling with business diplomas and degrees but wouldn’t know how to make a dollar if it hit them in the face. Passing exams is totally different to working, don’t expect to be chatting academic theory in the work place. So if you turn up at interviews thinking your qualifications guarantee the job, you are deluded. Think outside of the box, qualifications may help you get the interview, the employer wants to see how you’d do the job. I have an Economics degree and can’t recall the last time I used anything I was taught at university. The real enemy is not race it’s poverty and that affects all races over here. Then again we have NEVER had segregation like you had as recently as the 60s (plus we also get at least 20 days a year holiday [I actually get 30], unlimited paid sick leave, free hospitals and health care, better pay, £1 sterling is worth almost $2, and London is a far cooler city than NYC – you should move here) Here, in my experience, mixed race relationships aren’t even noticed, and as a white man I can say whenever I have been in mixed relationships any eyebrow raising has not been from my family or friends but from her family or friends. But for the most part race has been a non-issue and I have 4 mixed race children from more than one relationship and culture. I look years younger than my age as well, have distinctive blue eyes which I wouldn’t swap for anything which many find irresistible. I’m in good shape too and cool, stylish, successful, educated and urbane – just classy. It just shows a handsome man is a handsome man no matter what his background.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  26.   RayneDelay says:
    Posted: 21 Jul 07

    Oh my goodness Darklicious, what a horrifying story. You are a survivor of ignorance that has nothing to do with you. Dark, my heart goes out to you and I am sorry for the pain you have experienced throughout your life. You have an insightful and beautiful Thank you for sharing your story. Unfortunately, the effects of slavery still exhists. And it's being passed down to the children. People have got to understand that parents will passs on thier fears, hatred and prejudices. I am light brown with a dark skinned mother from Arkansas. She met and married my father a fair skinned black man of mixed background who was raised in Chicago. NEVER, have my parents made me feel as if my skin color was good or bad. It was never an issue in the immediate family. However, it was an issue at school and among extended family members. Some family members do not even consider me black. The kids would pick on me at school until my father started walking me to school, then it all stopped. Because they thought he was Native American or White so therefore I had more value now and maybe the fact that my father was there to protect me, made them straigten up and fly right. When my mother would go for walks with my light bright skinned older sister in her stroller, neighbors would think that my mother was the nanny. LOL, my siblings and I are various skin tones and people just assume that we have several different fathers. It irratates me when my sister and brothers show up and someone starts asking, "So um do you and your sister have the same father?" Of course I usually go back to my sister and tell her what happened and we laugh at the ignorance that people have. I get very embarrassed for some people, how could they walk around being so STUPID?? It's like they never matured since the 5th grade. I had a best friend in grammer school who was dark skinned and she was treated terribly, was insecure and clingy. I loved her and understood her. Eventually we both went to seperate highschools and we have never seen each other. Every now and then I would see her walking down the street with a different kid. She suffered a lot of abuse. I had a close light skinned friend but she was crazy. My closest friends tend to be dark skinned. I attribute it to my darkskinned mother. I noticed that dark skinned & brown skinned men tend to seek me out as a mate moreso than any other skin tone. White/Latino/Asian men rarely seek me out. Light skinned men almost never. I am attracted to all types of men, with more of a preference for White European (English/Welsh/Danish) or Eurasian(Keanu Reeves).

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  27.   darklicious says:
    Posted: 18 Jul 07

    I am a dark skinned,very dark skinned female from north carolina so you know right off i have gone through pure hell all my life. I never really experienced any positive comments from black people either,only negative. Naming calling was very common and i think maybe it still exisits today but not as open. You can have some of the smoothest dark skin but just because the tone is dark,you are considered ugly.I remember as a child feeling like God punished me by making my skin this dark and i always felt like he didn't love me as much as white and lighter skinned black people. This feeling carried on into my adult life and i never realized that i was valuable and loved by God until I was in my 40's. I beg anyone that is making another person feel this way please stop as it's something that you just forget,it goes on with you through your life until God reasures you that you are worthy and just as good. As for me myself because of the torment that i've been put through,i feel no real connection with blacks,only with whites and this is the connection that i would rather work on. I have gotten to the point where i don't think black men really want me as a mate so i have become more attracted to white men. I've always had an attraction to white men but it was something that would never happen. Now at this point in my life, i am going to purse it until i find the right one,as a black guy once told me, you are to black for a white man. My mother hasn't made it any better as she never allows me to make my choice of men,they are always too light. She didn't like my first love because he was too light and his family would not want me around were her words.Later in life i end up having a beautiful son by him that his family loves and of course our son is not light skinned. I say to any black person that is going to be all into that skin color, especially women like my mother,don't have children by dark skinned men. My father was dark skinned and from south carolina yet she feel in love with him and had me,it was after they broke up and she was alone that she must have changed. I can only say that she made my life a living hell. Last year i might a mexican male and mentioned it to her and the first thing she said was, is he dark because she doesn't think i am worthy of a light skinned man or a white man. She put a real knife in my heart yet i choice not to be like her, a single mother with 6 children by 6 different men and none of them really knowing their father but me.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  28.   choxiejason says:
    Posted: 18 Jul 07

    I am more attracted to darker women. And, my exgirlfriend tans in the summer. Just thought I'd mention that.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  29.   rubie_ru says:
    Posted: 13 Jul 07

    what a paradox i've always noticed most black men mate up with lighter skinned women where as an ivory male the blacker the more beautiful to me. met a woman on the net she was as black as coal. i know she wasn't trying to decieve me, the lighting is much more critical to show the true skin color but she was at best medium brown when we met in person but by then she had so captivated me i never told her why she turned my head 360 deg when i first saw her pic.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  30.   Cindie says:
    Posted: 09 Jul 07

    This light-skinned/dark-skinned stuff is getting old! I'm almost 54 years old, and I still hear comments about my "dark chocolate" skin....negative ones from black people....positive ones from white people. If I were 4 years old, I think I would be thoroughly confused....

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  31.   Fran42 says:
    Posted: 09 Jul 07

    Well spoken ladies and gents....JOJO I with you on the 40 looking 20 weather you are light or dark take care of yourself and you will always look great.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  32.   sonu786 says:
    Posted: 08 Jul 07

    very nice topic for all,

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  33.   untitleme says:
    Posted: 08 Jul 07

    I find it funny that dark-skinned black guys who, even if they prefer light-skinned women (and you can't really do anything about someone who has a preference like Redheads, Blondes or Black), they don't think their own dark skin is ugly. In fact, they thrive on it having it!! One black guy I knew had kids with a lighter skinned women and told me he wished his kids were darker like him!!

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  34.   Lady_ky says:
    Posted: 08 Jul 07

    I am a dark skinned woman, and I've never felt any different being dark skinned because of how I was raised. It was never an "issue" or a topic for discussion. I was only taught to take care of myself and my skin. Beautiful skin, in my opinion, is a skin tone and complexion that is clear, smooth, and healthy looking. I know that many black people tend to be color struck. I have some family members who are that way. Some who are dark skinned and appear to feel inferior in the presence of lighter skinned person. The whole ideology is ignorant...and honestly I just don't get it. A skin tone does not represent character. It's quite sad that the black community has this stupid form of self hate buried deep within. Dark skin is bad, aggressive, and unfavorable...while light skin is gentle, tender, and preferred. GET OUTTA HERE! I don't judge people like that...I don't treat person any different because of their skin tone. If someone's dark skinned...I don't feel like I could be their friend just because I too am dark skinned, and I don't, as I've seen some people do, act like a lighter skinned person is my enemy. lol. It's just craziness. I'm not a pessimist, but it won't ever change. It does go back to the days of slavery. Those days are long gone...and we as black people have freedom and opportunities...it still hasn't changed. I choose to remain calm, cool, collected and confident while not allowing shallow minded people and there ignorant thought processes to bother me. That's all one really can do. Be happy. ;-)

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  35.   JoJo says:
    Posted: 07 Jul 07

    I agree with you Ms Ebony some of the most beautiful women with exotic looks and dark skin are from Africa. You see the on the run ways all the time. Dark skin is such a lovely canvas for color and creation. One day black folks will stop being so ignorant when it comes to skin color. One of the many reason why our race cant get themeselves together because we dwell on unecesssary things

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  36.   Ebony says:
    Posted: 05 Jul 07

    when are we black people going to learn to love each other and ourselves? I am a beautiful black woman from west africa and love being black. I wish you could all come to west africa and see the beauty of dark skinned women from senegal, ghana, mali, nigeria, togo and other nations in west africa! learn to love yourself for who you are and not what color you are!

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  37.   Meemz4 says:
    Posted: 05 Jul 07

    Sissy, anybody who is abusive like that isn't worth your time of day. You shouldn't take that crap off of him, I don't care what he looks like! Also, because he is abusive towards you is an indication that your husband is extremely insecure himself. Sounds like you may need to find yourself a new husband. Once abuse starts, it never ends.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  38.   Member says:
    Posted: 05 Jul 07

    Hi I am a black woman in her late 40's. I am a dark carmel shade with light undertone. My husband is light light damn near white looks absolutely hispanic. He has been abusive to me for 7 years because he feels that he is better than me. Society tells him everyday that he is better than other black especially other insecure blacks. They treat him special and allow him special treatment which is one of the reason he treats me bad. I too am like those blacks I take his abuse because of his skin tone.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  39.   mossimo says:
    Posted: 02 Jul 07

    Intersting article, thanks for posting

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  40.   Cocokisses says:
    Posted: 01 Jul 07

    Its so great to read so many wonderful comment. Jojo, very well said! I guess the bottom line is, all that matters is that we are comfortable in our own skin, no matter what our complexion is.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  41.   Meemz4 says:
    Posted: 01 Jul 07

    I wish a flipside of studies like this would be done. Something that is never talked about is there a sector of the white population that cringes from being the palest in the room. I have friends who feel this way or have felt this way. Both sides need to be discussed in order to get to the deeper reasons of why. It seems to me that the consensus is that if the spectrum is too far from either end and either race, panic sets in. That would make a heck of a discussion and could create some healing power within this nation in particular.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  42.   Spress says:
    Posted: 29 Jun 07

    Interesting study. I wonder what the outcome would be if it was replicated in California. The trend out here, at least in regard to males, is dark skin is in. One light skinned brotha I was dating said that often Black women will not date him. Honestly, it wasn't until I got to know who he was on the inside that I considered dating him. Dark chocolate men just seem to have more sex appeal. At the end of the day, however, it all comes down to who treats you well and with whom you get along.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  43.   fala says:
    Posted: 29 Jun 07

    Thanks Jade and Jojo. Remember it takes all the colors to make a rainbow.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  44.   Jade74 says:
    Posted: 28 Jun 07

    Thank you JoJo.Well spoken comments.Cocokissses and Fala,thanks for the wonderful comments also.Keep it up beautiful sisters.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  45.   JoJo says:
    Posted: 28 Jun 07

    Sad but true. It seem like your only consideried "beautiful or appealing" If your skin is lighter or if you are biracial. Its also very sad when women choose to only have kids with man of another race besides black beacuse they want their child to have light skin "good hair" and light colored eyes. Not because they love the man. Its like what happend to black is beautiful there are plenty of beautiful dark skinned women out there Kenya Moore she was beautiful enough to be Miss America, Gabrille Union, Kelly Rowland now if they are not example of beautiful dark skinned women i dont know what else to say. I have dark skin and if my skin color or the texture of my hair is the only reason a man wants to be me Id rather for him not to even bother me. I love my dark skin and nothing looks better than to see a dark skin woman wearing all white it just looks good, and would'nt change my skin tone with a light skinned or biracial person for nothing. Its all about self esteem and confidence and if you have it your skin color hair texture and eye color will not even matter. Its all about how you work it. When im 40 and Im still looking like im 20 I'll have my dark skin to thank. :) When are black folk gonna stop being so color struck because remeber there was a time in history when your skin tone didnt matter if you were black you couldnt vote, or ride in the front of a bus. Think about that

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  46.   fala says:
    Posted: 28 Jun 07

    I never thought of that Coco. I'm going to give that a look.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  47. Posted: 27 Jun 07

    I took a wonderful (black) girl out sailing, last fall and we both picked up a noticable tan. Her mother was so upset at her for ruining her "light" skin (She has a beautiful medium-toned mohagony skin) that she didn't sail with me, later. I thought this was destructive on several personal levels, in addition to general societal damage: (1) Buying into valuing someone on the basis of their skin is just wrong, but a mother doing that to her daughter? That was awful! (2) A world of outdoors activities was kept from this woman, in fear of a tan and that's another shame. (3) I love nature and her refusal to participate in my world significantly contributed to our parting ways. Although we talked about it, my date chose not to confront her mother on this. It's just so destructive! It's an easily avoidable and fundamentally trivial problem, if one starts with the moral stance of refusinng to let petty people dictate one's life. It does require backbone and sometimes difficult choices. Like all ethical behavior though, these respectful views of treating others as people who happen to have differently-pigmented skin rather than pigments who happen to have people in them increase feelings of self-worth, sense of community and nurture diverse and fulfilling relationships. Isn't that what this discussion and this site is all about?

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  48.   Cocokisses says:
    Posted: 27 Jun 07

    Yep Fala...even in church. Most pastors that are dark skinned have light skinned wives. Just something I noticed when I was a kid.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  49.   fala says:
    Posted: 26 Jun 07

    It's a sad fact that this kind of stuff still goes on these days.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment
  50.   Cocokisses says:
    Posted: 25 Jun 07

    Like the author says...slave mentality! Of course it still exist, and unfortunately, our people are still buying into it. Makes me wonder though...in my last 2 jobs with my company, I have been interviewed and hired over the phone, with only the sound of my voice and my experience to back me up. Would the outcome have been different if they knew I was a dark skinned black woman? Thank God I have the credentials to back me up.

    Like or Dislike: or 0 (0)
    Reply to this comment