Reflections on Racism in Filipino Culture: A Personal Journey

Racism, in all its forms, is a complex and persistent issue that affects many cultures worldwide. While it is often assumed that cultures with a history of welcoming foreign influence are immune to racist tendencies, this is not always the case. The Philippines, with its long history of colonialism and cultural exchange, has its own unique set of challenges in addressing racism. This article explores the subtler aspects of racism within Filipino culture, drawing from personal experiences and observations.

Understanding Racism in the Philippines

Racism is an inherent aspect of all races found in the world, and identifying it in a specific culture can be nuanced. When discussing Filipinos as a race, it is important to note that they are generally welcoming, tolerant, and respectful people. Unlike some other cultures, where racist behaviors may be disguised under a veneer of friendliness, Filipinos are more likely to openly exhibit admirable qualities while also battling against subtle forms of discrimination.

Subtle Racism in Filipino Society

Calling someone with dark skin "negro" or "baluga" might seem like an everyday term, but the context and usage can vary. In some cases, these terms may not be inherently racist, but the way they are used can indicate broader societal attitudes. For instance, using such terms to make light-hearted jokes, especially when strangers are involved, can be seen as extremely rude and disrespectful.

Additionally, Filipinos, like many societies, often favor lighter skin tones. This preference is not just a personal choice but is also influenced by media, beauty standards, and even some beauty products that claim to lighten skin. The pursuit of "white" or "flawless" skin can be a significant driving force behind various skin lightening products and practices, indicating a deeper cultural preference for whiteness.

Personal Experiences and Observations

My personal journey has involved significant reflection on how I perceive and treat people based on their skin color. It began with realizing my own "racist" behavior, which was a difficult acknowledgment. For instance, I often joked with friends about their skin tone, not realizing the underlying judgments and prejudices I was perpetuating. This behavior was not indicative of profound racism but rather a reflection of the subtle culture within which I grew up.

However, as I grew older and became more aware, I began to question these behaviors more critically. One significant turning point occurred when I noticed some of my family members engaging in discriminatory practices. I witnessed my grandma making derogatory remarks about black people, and my older brother showed disgust when watching black creators on YouTube. These incidents brought to light the issue of potential discrimination within my own family, leading me to confront and address these harmful behaviors.

Towards a More Inclusive Society

It is important to recognize that racism is a learned behavior and that efforts can be made to change it. Awareness, education, and open dialogue are crucial steps in combating racist attitudes. Society as a whole, including families, schools, and the media, has a responsibility to promote inclusivity and self-reflection.

I have come to respect black people and value their contributions. My family's discriminatory attitudes towards them are deeply troubling and represent a significant gap in their understanding and acceptance. While change may not be immediate, it is essential to continue moving in the direction of mutual respect and understanding.

Conclusion

Reflecting on my experiences and observations, I realize the importance of acknowledging and addressing subtle forms of racism within Filipino culture. While Filipinos are generally welcoming and respectful, there remains a need to challenge and change the underlying cultural attitudes that favor lighter skin tones. By fostering a more inclusive society, where everyone, regardless of skin color, is valued and respected, we can work towards a more equitable future.