Black Americans have begrudgingly digested meals that the purported land of opportunity has forced down our throats, brainwashed to believe that White is always right. To climb the ladder of success means downplaying who you are to get what you want. If that means dissing your race, then so be it.
In our country, the white gaze reigns supreme. The white gaze has to do with White people having a misconception that their view of Black culture is the standard of what is right and acceptable. From music, fashion, and the film industry, White America determines which Black folks enter the room and when. Those chosen usually fit the image of who White people consider to be safe Black people.
After much criticism about the show’s lack of diversity, California native Tayshia Adams became the next contestant looking for love. Adams, 31, fits the image of what America deems appropriate. Hence the white gaze is played out in full effect. While she’s beautiful, her mixed-race heritage is unmistakable. The show plays it safe with an attractive biracial woman who makes them feel comfortable while checking off the box of having a woman of color on the show.
The beauty of Black skin comes in a diverse and expansive array. Black women come in a variety of colors and sizes. Although we continue to be demonized, the melanin in our skin should be celebrated, not whitewashed.
We are long overdue to see a Black woman on “The Bachelorette” who proudly and unabashedly rocks her natural style while embracing her culture. The mainstream perception of our beauty must change. We are living in an age where the demand for diversity is more evident than ever before.
We’re sick and tired of turning on the television and seeing people who don’t proudly represent us. Black culture makes money for our White counterparts. At the core is someone who is not Black capitalizing off our abilities and talents.
Anissa D. Blair is an Atlanta-based author and blogger with a passion for writing and being a mother and wife. In her blog, “Straight, No Chaser,” she represents everyday women “just trying to cope doing average s—” and covers all topics — from the good, the bad, and the ugly of navigating through life’s obstacles and roadblocks, to building and keeping successful relationships while trying to maintain your sanity. No taboo topics here. You can read her work at rollingout.com/anissa/ and follow her on social media @anissadblair on Instagram and @anissablair on Facebook.
