The New York Times recently ran a profile on Jane White, an African American theatre actress who overcame adversity to become a successful performer. The daughter of a civil rights activist, White experienced racism due to the color and tone of her skin.
“I’ve just always been too ‘white’ to be ‘black’ and too ‘black’ to be ‘white,’ which, you know, gets to you after a while, particularly when the roles keep passing you by,” said White, quoted by the news source.
White didn't let these obstacles hold her down, and over the years she proved herself to be an incredible talent. She eventually learned to embrace the color of her skin, and refused to allow directors or producers disguise her as a race that she was not.
Playbill reported that in 1979 White starred in her own one-woman show, where she discussed her struggles and the importance of being confident in herself. The actress passed away on July 24th at the age of 88 after years of entertaining audiences.
Ethnic women looking to feel as confident in their skin as White should consider using skin care products for black skin to give their appearance a healthy glow.