Colorism and its effect on family life

Guests: Lori Tharps

While racism has long been the central focus of race relations in America, there is a less apparent conversation going on within minority communities.  It’s been dubbed “colorism,” which is the gradient skin tone scale – and studies show that those with lighter skin tend to have societal advantages.  Associate professor of journalism at Temple University  LORI L. THARPS’ new book Same Family, Different Colors explores the perceptions that one’s skin color can engender, and how this affects families of different skin tones.  She joins Mary Cummings-Jordan this hour to discuss her book and the stories of the families she profiled.