[soniallyn]

I am a black woman, I have a daughter she is 14 years old she get teased at school because her complextion is very dark. Kids always tell her that she is too black. She hate the color of her skin because of that, she is a beautiful girl. What should I do?

[Black n Proud]

I'm so sorry to hear about that soniallyn

Self hatred I think is a thing that all black people especially women go through at some point in time. It really is quite sad how far removed we are from slavery in time but how much it has imposed itself on our present mental state. Anyhow I see it everyday here where I live in jamaica women and men have put themselves through dangerous routines to try and make themselves "browner/whither"

I think the best thing you can do for your daughter now is be there to support her. Help to reinforce a positive self image by exposing her to positive black role models (there are so many) don't take the route of inculcating that black is better than all races... because that would be as ignorant as those who think light skin is better than dark skin.

Daily make it your point of duty to complement her on her strong points both physically and emotionally. Teach her about her about her proud and rich heritage, she's going through a phase now like most teens, but with positive reinforcement she will grow into the confident, proud and regal empress that she is. Good luck, you're both in my prayers

:)