What name do you call it?
Have you ever heard someone calling his or her dog “blacky”?
Growing up, I vividly remember my grandmother calling me “blacky,” a term I also heard others use to refer to their dogs. Honestly, it offended me – it wasn’t funny at all.
I am Jessica Asin-ma Abatanie, a maiden from Kaleo in Ghana’s Upper West Region. I’m pursuing a B.A. in Development Communication at SD Dombo University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, Wa, and I am the winner of Miss Dumba 2022.
As a young woman striving to achieve my goals, I have often received compliments on my skin tone, with many advising me to keep it natural and avoid bleaching. I have always wondered why anyone would consider bleaching their skin, especially after witnessing the unpleasant effects it has on others – the foul smell, uneven tone, and more.
During my time at Tumu Senior High Technical School, I saw my Senior House Mistress and teachers address skin bleaching among students, which inspired me to write and perform a poem to raise awareness about this issue in school.
I firmly believe in the value of embracing our natural skin tones, whether fair, caramel, or melanated like mine. Be proud of who you are and glow with confidence – it’s truly priceless.
Queen Asin-ma.
