Demystifying Skin (Panel Discussion) with Olaokun Soyinka, Reni Eddo-Lodge and Mpho Tjope at the 2019 edition of Ake Festival

Why do white people seek sun-tans? Why do black people bleach? Skin is one of the most powerful and complex sources of preconceptions; it can signify priviledge, power, and wealth; it can betray age, class, or occupation. It can be flawless or blemished. it can be the difference between life and death. This panel (Olaokun Soyinka, Reni Eddo-Lodge and Mpho Tjope) explored the complexity and nuance of whiteness, blackness and the myriad of in-betweens. Race, racism, colourism, racial science, social science, history and contemporary events provide throgh which these issues are viewed and analysed.