Some Egyptians might think we don't have that problem, but the truth is, we do. I'm not saying all Egyptians are racist, but many are, without even realizing it. Call it subconscious, call it what you will, but racism is ingrained in our culture whether we want to admit it or not.
I believe the younger generation is a bit more open-minded due to globalization, the internet, and whatnot. However, members of the older generation still hold racist beliefs and think nothing of it.
- They believe that a fair-skinned child is objectively more beautiful than a darker skinned one.
- They feel superior to their southeast Asian and Nigerian "helpers".
- People act sad and disappointed for you if you or your child get a dark tan.
- Sudanese refugees are often bullied and abused in Egypt.
- Asians were tormented in the streets being accused of carrying the Coronavirus.
- There are fairness creams for God's sake.
What some Egyptians fail to understand is this: YOU'RE NOT WHITE. Seriously, people have argued this. I don't mean technically, or what a census would say. I mean you're not caucasian and you would be considered a minority in any western country.
Egypt also suffers from what is referred to as "3o2det el Khawaga" The Foreigner Complex. White foreigners here are all but worshiped. They're treated very well. They're paid higher salaries and people fall all over themselves to help them (admittedly often for a tip). People want to be friends with them, they want to actually BE them. It's rather sad, honestly. It comes from internalized racism. Some people actually believe white people are better than they are. They make their Facebook profile pictures blonde, blue-eyed children instead of posting photos of their own children.
Racism has been a part of Egyptian society for hundreds of years due to colonization by European powers. Light skin signified the upper class or elite. Darker complexions have been portrayed as servants, doormen, and cleaners in the movies since their inception. Hell, blackface is still done here to this day!
All of us should look within ourselves, be honest, and ask ourselves some questions:
- Have you ever made judgments about someone based solely on their race or ethnic background?
- Have you ever asked questions about someone's ethnicity or race as if they're a spokesperson?
- If your daughter wanted to marry a black man, how would you feel?
- Do you wish you or your children were lighter-skinned?
- Do you use skin, hair, or eye color as a measure of attractiveness?
The whole idea that the whiter, the lighter the hair or eyes, the better is rooted in racism. Our culture is steeped in it. Trying to get as far away from dark features as possible is in itself ingrained racism.
We have to do better. With all the information and education available now, people can't claim ignorance. We should all look within and listen to black and other minority voices about the injustices they face and do what we can to change the status quo. Here are a few simple ideas to start:
- Talk to your children about what is happening and why. Do your research and give accurate information on the history of these events.
- Pay attention to your thoughts. If you catch yourself thinking in a prejudiced way, stop, acknowledge it, and make a mental note not to follow that thought pattern the next time it comes up.
- Call people out on their racist jokes, comments, or judgments. Being silent in the presence of racism is being an accomplice to it. Ask, "What's funny about that?" Let them explain their racism. Who cares if they're uncomfortable? They should be.
Thoughts? Leave a comment below.
