LibraryScenariosWhy professional success feels tied to proximity to whiteness
Scenario

Why professional success feels tied to proximity to whiteness

I've been straightening my hair and wearing lighter makeup for job interviews because I learned early that looking 'professional' meant looking less Black.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Workplace advancement often requires adopting appearance standards that distance individuals from their authentic racial presentation.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Colorism and intraracial identity?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.