The Pacific is full of diversity but some people want to make themselves whiter
Colourism remains a significant issue in the Pacific, particularly in Tonga, where skin whitening products are widely used. This trend is rooted in the region's colonial history, which has perpetuated ideals of beauty associated with whiteness. Many individuals, including beauty pageant contestants, face discrimination based on their skin tone, highlighting the ongoing struggle against these prejudices.
- ▪Skin whiteners are commonly found on shelves in Tonga, reflecting a beauty ideal that favors lighter skin tones.
- ▪The issue of colourism is linked to the Pacific's colonial past, influencing societal attitudes towards skin tone.
- ▪Many Pacific Islanders, including beauty pageant contestants, experience discrimination and online abuse due to their darker skin tones.
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Colourism in the Pacific continues as region grapples with history of colonialismABy Alice LoloheaTopic:RaceSat 30 May 2026 at 8:06amSat 30 May 2026 at 8:06amSat 30 May 2026 at 8:06amSkin whiteners are common on shelves in Tonga. (ABC News: Marian Kupu)abc.net.au/news/colourism-in-the-pacific-linked-to-colonialism/106730874Link copiedShareShare articlePauline Bourke remembers when skin brighteners became popular in the early 2000s.She now sells beauty products to Tongan youth who are continuing the trend."I believe they use these products to become more beautiful, their skin becomes more clearer … [they hope] their girlfriend or their boyfriend will also see them as more beautiful," she told ABC's The Pacific.Skin whiteners and brighteners are common in Tonga.Whiteness is a beauty ideal…
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