Hollywood has had it's acceptable version of a black girl from the start. That version being tall, thin, light-skinned, light eyes, etc...But the problem with this version is that is erases so many other black women that come in different shades, shapes, and sizes. There is a lack of representation for black girls in Hollywood and this is something that needs to change according to actress Zendaya.

In a recent interview at BeautyCon (A beauty trade show), Zendaya made a statement about Hollywood's acceptable version of a black girl and what that is supposed to look like on screen. She said in the interview, "As a light skin black woman it's important to say hey, I'm using my privilege and my platform to show you how much beauty there is in the African-American community." This was such an important statement because often, black women who are of a lighter complexion don't use their privilege to advocate for darker-skinned women in an industry like this one. It's so important because there is a lack of representation that needs to be addressed.

As the interview continues, Zendaya elaborates on why this change needs to happen. She says, "I always find it weird that Hollywood...I mean I wish you guys could be in these meetings...I am Hollywood's acceptable version of a black girl and that has to change. We're vastly too beautiful, too interesting for me to be the only representation of that." Here, she further recognizes and makes it clear that she sees her privilege and wants to create change so that more black women feel represented and are given the same opportunities that she is given.

I think that Zendaya was incredibly inspiring for making this statement. This interview was a perfect example of what it looks like to use your privilege in a way that sparks change and creates more dialogue on an issue that has been in the beauty industry since the beginning, which is colorism. Her recognizing and being aware of her privilege is another reason why I love her and think that she is an inspiration to all.