Shadeism is a direct result of slavery – and the psychological and sociological impacts are still visible in the Caribbean – and elsewhere – today.
Exploring Shadeism describes the phenomenon of shadeism, and examines it within the context of the wider Caribbean, focusing particularly on Caribbean history and literature. It also explores two theories that are useful in explaining why shade discrimination has taken root in the Caribbean.
The book includes original research conducted in Barbados, and insights from people who’ve experienced the phenomenon. It draws conclusions about the impact of this phenomenon in several areas of daily life.
From the Barbados book launch:
“Exploring Shadeism by Sharon Hurley Hall is a timely contribution to writing and publishing in Barbados…It is timely politically, coming as it does during the debate around race, identity and #blacklivesmatter. It is also timely as a teaching tool, as grown-ups need to find ways to understand shadeism themselves so that they might guide young people struggling with self-esteem relating to their blackness.” – Linda M. Deane, writer, publisher, co-founding editor of ArtsEtc
“Exploring Shadeism marks a significant contribution not just to the analysis of the Barbadian social landscape, but to the Caribbean and global Diaspora.” – Sandra Sealy, founder of Seawoman Creative Media and author of Chronicles of a Seawoman.
Readers’ reviews:
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- “helped give me a better understanding of how and why we judge our own race based on appearance and color”
- “This book drove home the damage colonization and slavery has done and still hasn’t stopped.”
Buy on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk
Check out the video below to learn more about Exploring Shadeism:
Press
- ‘Exploring Shadeism’ by Sharon Hurley Hall – BLK INK
- Book Review – Exploring Shadeism
- Why is Colorism Still an Issue? – AfroSapiophile
- Exploring Colorism – feature on Everyday Racism
- Bajan Reporter
- Days Bookstore
- Arts Etc. 2019 IndyList