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Worth Fighting 4
by Jarold Imes
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ADULT CONNECTION: T.Styles
Every now and then, there is a book that comes along that cross genres. Our debut Adult Connection title, Black and Ugly by T.Styles talks about the age old dividing gap among African Americans. Talking about the issues of our skin tones and the sensitivity behind them are not easy, however, T.Styles does well. I invited her to give us her take on this subject.
How do you feel issues pertaining to skin complextion positively or negatively affect African Americans?I think it definitely impacts our people negatively. To think that you’re better than another simply because of the exterior God gave you, is both shallow and wrong. If we don’t stop this irrational behavior now, we’re going to pass this terrible trait on to our children, and our children’s children. Look at what happened in Rwanda . I know some people may say that my statement is far fetched and that, that kind of atrocity could never happen in America . To them I’d say…look at what happened on 911. We are not above anything in this country, including being racially biased against our own people.
Do you feel we still do the paperbag test?
I think “some” people unconsciously do the “Paper-bag” test. Although they might not necessarily say I won’t date an individual unless they’re complexion matches this bag or lighter, they have preferences. And to be honest, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with having a preference. What is wrong is putting someone down, especially a member of your own race, simply because their complexion doesn’t match your own.
Have you personally experience a conflict where your skin complextion was an issue?
I have dealt with this in my life. And to be honest, it stuck with me for a long time. I remember family members referring to me as the cute “Brownskin” one because my sister was lighter. They looked at my complexion as a deformity. Isn’t that something?
What support have you received in telling your story?
I’ve received a lot of support. At first, I was worried that Triple Crown wouldn’t embrace my story. I was pleasantly surprised. Not only did they embrace my message, they loved it!! My family members have also been supportive despite me unveiling our “dirty laundry” in interviews. I must say, I’m very proud of them.
What do you want young adults to take away from reading your story?
First, I want the young adults who pick up my book to be entertained. Because once they’re entertained, I have their attention. Secondly, I want them to do one of two things. If they’re causing harm to someone because of their physical traits, I want them to stop today! It’s a great thing to be different. Lastly, I’d like any young girl or boy who has experienced racism within their own race to go to a mirror, look at themselves, and say…I’m beautiful/handsome. Rid yourselves of the emotional baggage other people have placed on you. The African American race is lovely because we’re a rainbow of people. This is our advantage…not disadvantage.
Copyright 2006 - 2008 Abednego's Free, LLC & Jarold Imes