By Morris Wambua

Prejudice and discrimination continues to shape the lives of countless individuals as a result of systemic ideologies entrenched in various levels of the global sociopolitical architecture. Most importantly, there is a lesser-known but equally insidious form of racism that has been wreaking havoc on the lives of those with darker skin tones: Crowism. This term, coined to describe the specific form of prejudice and discrimination faced by individuals with darker skin, encapsulates a history of systemic racism, microaggressions, and social exclusion that has been perpetuated for centuries. From the African continent to the diaspora, the experiences of black people have been profoundly shaped by Crowism, leaving deep scars and posing significant challenges to their well-being and success.

The Origins and Impact of Crowism

Crowism, rooted in colonial history and perpetuated by global power dynamics, is a reflection of a world that has long valued lighter skin over darker skin. This prejudice is not merely a relic of the past but a persistent force that continues to shape the lives of black individuals today. From the beauty industry’s preference for lighter skin to the disproportionate rates of poverty and incarceration among darker-skinned people, Crowism manifests in countless ways, impacting every aspect of life. The roots of Crowism can be traced back to the colonial era, when European colonizers imposed their values, beliefs, and hierarchies on the rest of the world. In many African countries, lighter-skinned individuals were often placed in positions of power and privilege, while those with darker skin were subjugated and dehumanized. This created a hierarchy based on skin color that has persisted long after the end of colonial rule, leading to widespread discrimination against darker-skinned individuals. Today, Crowism is not confined to any single region or country; it is a global issue that affects black people in various ways. In many African societies, lighter skin is still often seen as more desirable, leading to the proliferation of skin-lightening products and the marginalization of those with darker skin. In the diaspora, black individuals face a double-edged sword, experiencing racism both from the majority population and from within their own communities, where lighter skin is sometimes still viewed as a marker of beauty and success.

The African Continent: A Battleground for Crowism

Africa, the cradle of humanity and home to diverse cultures and ethnicities, is paradoxically also a battleground where Crowism has left a deep and lasting impact. The continent’s history of colonization, exploitation, and external influence has contributed to the internalization of Crowism within African societies. During the colonial era, European powers imposed their cultural norms and values on African societies. This included the idea that lighter skin was more desirable, a belief that was reinforced by the preferential treatment given to lighter-skinned Africans who were often placed in positions of power or given better opportunities for education and employment. This colonial legacy has persisted in many African societies, where lighter skin is often still associated with beauty, wealth, and social status. One of the most alarming manifestations of Crowism on the African continentis the widespread use of skin-lightening products. These products, often marketed as beauty enhancers, are a multi-billion-dollar industry in Africa, despite the serious health risks associated with their use. Skin-lightening creams, which often contain harmful chemicals like mercury and hydroquinone, can cause a range of health problems, including skin cancer, kidney damage, and severe skin conditions. The popularity of these products is a tragic testament to the deep-seated impact of Crowism, as millions of Africans feel pressured to lighten their skin in order to meet societal standards of beauty. Crowism also manifests in the form of systemic discrimination in areas such as employment and education. In many African countries, individuals with lighter skin are often perceived as more competent or more qualified, leading to preferential hiring practices and greater opportunities for advancement. This form of discrimination is not always overt but can be seen in the subtle biases and assumptions that influence decision-making in these areas. As a result, darker-skinned individuals often face significant barriers to success, perpetuating cycles of poverty and marginalization.
The Diaspora: Navigating a Double-Edged Sword

For black individuals in the diaspora, Crowism presents a unique set of challenges. The experience of being black in predominantly non-black societies is often fraught with both overt racism and subtle forms of discrimination, including those stemming from Crowism. This prejudice can come not only from the majority population but also from within black communities themselves, where internalized racism can create divisions based on skin tone. One of the most glaring examples of Crowism in the diaspora is the disproportionate rates of racial profiling and police brutality faced by
darker-skinned individuals. In countries like the United States, black people, especially those with darker skin, are more likely to be stopped by the police, searched, and subjected to violence. This is not just a matter of individual prejudice but is reflective of a broader systemic issue in which darker skin is unfairly associated with criminality and danger. In the workplace, Crowism can manifest in subtle yet significant ways. Darker-skinned black individuals often face discrimination in hiring practices, promotions, and salaries. Studies have shown that lighter-skinned black people are more likely to be hired, earn higher wages, and advance more quickly in their careers compared to their darker-skinned counterparts. This creates a cycle of economic disparity that is difficult to break and further marginalizes those who are already disadvantaged. Another form of Crowism in the diaspora is the cultural appropriation and erasure of black culture. While black culture is often celebrated and commodified in mainstream society, the individuals who create and sustain this culture—particularly those with darker skin—are frequently marginalized or excluded from the benefits. This can be seen in the fashion, music, and entertainment industries, where black culture is often appropriated by non-black individuals who profit from it without acknowledging or compensating its origins.
The Psychological Toll of Crowism

The constant exposure to Crowism, whether through overt discrimination or subtle microaggressions, takes a significant psychological toll on black individuals. The impact of this prejudice on mental health is profound, leading to a range of emotional and psychological challenges that can be difficult to overcome. One of the most damaging effects of Crowism is the internalization of racist attitudes and beliefs. For many black individuals, particularly those with
darker skin, the constant barrage of negative stereotypes and discriminatory treatment can lead to feelings of inferiority and self-doubt. This internalized racism can manifest in various ways, including a desire to change one’s appearance to fit societal standards of beauty, a reluctance to embrace one’s cultural identity, or a sense of alienation from one’s own community. The psychological stress of living in a world where one is constantly judged and devalued based on skin color can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. The pressure to conform to societal expectations, the fear of discrimination, and the emotional toll of navigating
a racist system can be overwhelming, leading to chronic stress and, in some cases, mental health crises. Despite the challenges posed by Crowism, many black individuals have developed resilience and coping mechanisms to navigate the difficulties they face. These strategies can include seeking support from family and community, engaging in activism and advocacy, and finding strength in cultural and spiritual practices. However, the need for such resilience highlights the ongoing and pervasive nature of Crowism and the urgent need for systemic change.

The Fight for Equality and Justice

The struggle against Crowism is not a new one, but it is an ongoing battle that requires concerted efforts at both individual and systemic levels. Black individuals and communities have long been at the forefront of the fight for equality and justice, using a variety of strategies to challenge and dismantle the systems that perpetuate Crowism. One of the most powerful tools in the fight against Crowism is activism. Black activists and advocates have worked tirelessly to raise awareness of the
issue, challenge discriminatory practices, and demand change. Movements such as Black Lives Matter have brought global attention to the ways in which black individuals, particularly those with darker skin, are marginalized and discriminated against. These movements have also highlighted the intersectionality of Crowism, showing how it is intertwined with other forms of oppression, such as sexism, classism, and homophobia. Cultural expression is another vital form of resistance against Crowism. Black artists, writers, musicians, and creators have used their platforms to celebrate black culture and challenge the negative stereotypes associated with darker skin. By reclaiming and redefining blackness, they have created spaces for black individuals to see themselves reflected in positive and empowering ways. This cultural renaissance has not only challenged Crowism but has also inspired a new generation of black individuals to embrace their identities and fight for justice.

Policy Changes and Legal Reforms

Systemic change is essential to dismantling Crowism, and this requires significant policy changes and legal reforms. Governments and institutions must be held accountable for discriminatory practices and policies that disproportionately affect darker-skinned individuals. This includes addressing issues such as racial profiling, workplace discrimination, and access to healthcare and education. Legal protections against discrimination based on skin color must be strengthened, and efforts must be made to ensure that these laws are enforced.

Crowism is a pervasive and deeply entrenched form of racism that has far-reaching consequences for black individuals and communities around the world. Its impact is felt in every aspect of life, from beauty standards and employment opportunities to mental health and social justice. However, the fight against Crowism is not a lost cause. Through activism, cultural expression, and systemic change, we can begin to dismantle the structures that perpetuate this prejudice and create a more just and equitable world for all. We must recognize the harmful effects of Crowism and work to challenge and change the attitudes, behaviors, and systems that sustain it. By promoting inclusivity, challenging stereotypes, and advocating for equity, we can move closer to a world where all individuals, regardless of skin color, are valued and respected. Let us take up the mantle of this fight and commit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for justice and equality. The road may be long and fraught with challenges, but the resilience, strength, and determination of black communities worldwide offer hope that a better future is possible.