Dark skinned women

Are we disenfranchised as a people??
When I was a child, I remember hearing people say, "she's cute to be dark skinned". Why is lighter skin considered prettier? How in our community is there discrimination about skin color? How did we get here. Many may say that they do not feel that way, but the proof is everywhere in America. What makes Beyonce prettier then Gabrielle Union? Nothing. Are black men more intrigued with lighter women, but have an issue when darker women turn to other races. Its different when you are discriminated by opposing races (which is still very bad) but it's extremely discerning when its your own race. What makes a person beautiful is not complexion. That belief comes from decades of inner hatred. Beauty comes from life, smiles, personality, the person as a whole being. As black women we must strengthen each other and understand what beauty really is. Black men must empower black women and not beat them down emotionally and mentally. Black parents must not groom their children to believe that only light is beautiful. Its amazing how wonderful black America is, not matter if they are dark or light. This is not a problem in every home, but it is a problem that only we can change. Be a part of the solution, but the problem.