Many people of color face implicit and explicit racism in their daily lives. A byproduct of that reality is something called “colorism.” In short, colorism is the discrimination against people who have darker skin. And Chika Okoro, a Stanford University graduate student, recently gave a TED Talk encouraging corporations to do something about it.

In the video, Okoro explains how certain messages from a Straight Outta Compton casting call stuck with her after she read them. Specifically, she outlines the ways that “D” girls, the girls who were described as “Black” and “dark” by the casting managers, are often erased in society.

Her words are a powerful reminder that companies who are in the business of representing people must do more to represent all people in ways that are positive and empowering.

Watch the full TED Talk below:

 

Photo: YouTube