We will use empirical data to analyze how inter- and intra-racial discrimination based on skin color and hairstyles are forms of discrimination apparent in virtually every social institution, such as marriage rates, media, imprisonment, holding political office, educational attainment, wages, and more.
Athena Title
Colorism and Hairism
Semester Course Offered
Offered every year.
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Student learning Outcomes
Students will be able to analyze writings from voices from around the world on the history and rationale behind colorism and hairism.
Students will be able to display written and verbal communication on how colorism and hairism impact divergent communities.
Students will be able to theorize ways to promote inclusion and community.
Students will work solo, in pairs, and in small groups to discuss global viewpoints that emphasize interconnectedness.
Students will participate in in-class international café days in which they disseminate information to each other about colorism and hairism on a global scale, doing so in a low-stakes environment.
Students will create, record, and share oral histories for peers to engage with.
Topical Outline
1. History of colorism and hairism
2. Legality of colorism and hairism
3. Colorism and hairism in the criminal justice system
4. Colorism and hairism in politics
5. Colorism x hairism x gender and marriage
6. Colorism x hairism x gender in the media
7. Chemically altering skin and hair
8. Colorism x hairism x body type
9. Colorism and hairism in sports
10. Colorism and hairism on socioeconomic status
Institutional Competencies Learning Outcomes
Social Awareness & Responsibility
The capacity to understand the interdependence of people, communities, and self in a global society.
