This is a fascinating perspective and, indeed, an issue prevalent in Westernised societies. Mainly due to colonialism and the introduction of Social Darwinism, people of various ethnic backgrounds have been conditioned to ward away from the aesthetic diversities of their cultures to adopt that of the European standard. This, in turn, adds more social pressure onto women and men alike, encouraging objectification and unrealistic standards, further aggravating the stability of societies.
This is why I find the Afrofuturism movement so appealing and inspiring. The contributors have already had significant progress toward highlighting the beauty of dark complexions within their own cultural perspective, while painting African people as pioneers in science and social progress through which furthers the goal of erasing the complexion hierarchy. Resolution will not arise from a single, large initiative, but through small campaigns that gain momentum through the years. Unfortunately, change seldom occurs in one's lifetime.
Thank-you for highlighting this, it needs to be spoken about.
Thanks for your beautifully written and comprehensive comment. I sure did learn a lot from it which includes "Afrofuturism" which I am coming across for the first time. Looking forward to hearing from you more often :).
No problem and ditto! I'm glad to spread the word of Afrofuturism.