Did you know racism exists more in Asia, not just the West?
Yes — and it’s an often overlooked truth that racism is not exclusive to the West.

Racism exists more in Asia — not just the West?

While Western colonialism and white supremacy are widely acknowledged, racism in Asia is real, complex, and often ignored in global conversations. Anti-Blackness, colorism, xenophobia, and ethnic discrimination are issues across the continent, rooted in history, media portrayals, and social hierarchies.

Anti-Black Racism-
In China, India, Japan, and other parts of Asia, Black people — including students, migrants, and tourists — often face discrimination, stereotyping, and exclusion

African residents have reported evictions, denied services, and abuse, especially during crises like COVID-19.

Colorism and “Fair Skin” Obsession-
Across Asia, lighter skin is still equated with beauty, status, and success.

This fuels a billion-dollar skin-whitening industry and creates discrimination against darker-skinned Asians and Africans.

Casteism & Ethnic Hierarchies-
In India, the caste system and deep-rooted bias still marginalize Dalits, tribal peoples, and darker-skinned communities.

In Myanmar, the Rohingya Muslims face ethnic cleansing.

In Japan and Korea, discrimination exists against ethnic minorities like the Burakumin, Zainichi Koreans, and foreign workers

Media Representation-
Asian films, ads, and TV shows often exclude or stereotype Black and darker-skinned people — reinforcing colonial-era beauty and racial standards

Quote for Thought-
“Racism isn’t Western — it’s global. And silence is part of the system.”
— Beyond the Mirror of Color