How Netflix’s “Skin” Documentary Exposes The Deep Folds of Colorism
Mild spoilers
There was no way to avoid the new documentary on Netflix that compellingly examines the damaging physical and mental effects of the epidemic of skin beaching, aptly titled Skin, produced and narrated by Nollywood actress, Beverly Naya, and directed by Daniel Etim Effiong.
Naya is British-Nigerian, and while the project also showcases the testimonies of other young Black women in the entertainment industry, including Diana Yekini, another British-Nigerian actress, Skin is really enfolded in Naya’s activated journey of self-discovery, which is set in the thriving metropolis of Lagos — my former hometown.
Growing up in the former capital city of Nigeria, after relocating from Kansas City at the age of eight, the hovering residue of British colonialism was present in the fabric of functionality.
Gaining independence on October 1st 1960 was merely a formality when you consider the permanent bondage etched into the relics of a violent invasion, staged by white invaders, who were masked as dutiful missionaries, wielding bibles as weaponry.
Since Nigeria is a former British colony, the territory was forced to discard its tribal deity in favor of the English lifestyle, which permeates through the purposely installed system…
