colorism

[/ˈkʌlərɪzəm/]
noun
colorismo
1. Discrimination or prejudice based on skin tone, typically within the same racial or ethnic group, favoring lighter skin tones over darker ones
Colorism has historically affected opportunities for darker-skinned individuals in entertainment and media industries.
O colorismo historicamente afetou oportunidades para indivíduos de pele mais escura nas indústrias de entretenimento e mídia.
2. The social, economic, and psychological advantages given to individuals with lighter skin within communities of color
Many scholars argue that colorism is deeply rooted in colonial history and continues to perpetuate inequality.
Muitos estudiosos argumentam que o colorismo está profundamente enraizado na história colonial e continua perpetuando a desigualdade.
Colorism is particularly significant in Brazil, where the legacy of slavery and mixed-race identity intersects with aesthetic and social preferences. Unlike the USA's historically binary racial classifications, Brazilian colorism exists across a spectrum of skin tones and is often intertwined with class and socioeconomic status. The concept has gained prominence in both countries through Black activist movements, particularly in discussions about representation in media, beauty standards, and systemic inequality.
NYC Slang
skin tone bias, shade discrimination
Synonyms / Sinônimos
skin tone discriminationshade-based discriminationpigmentocracychromism
Antonyms / Antônimos
racial equalityinclusivityanti-discrimination

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
colorismo
Standard term increasingly used in academic and social discourse
Rio de Janeiro
colorismo
Commonly discussed in context of favela communities and socioeconomic disparities
São Paulo
colorismo
Widely used in academic circles and social movements
Portugal
colorismo
Emerging term; more commonly referenced in discussions about former colonies and Lusophone communities

Related Words

racismdiscriminationprejudiceskin bleachingEurocentric beauty standardssystemic inequality

Related Idioms & Phrases

light skin privilege
paper bag test (historical reference)
preference for lighter shades
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