Ep 6. Shablack

Shaunie's Home Court is a reality television series that chronicles the life of Shaunie O'Neal, the ex-wife of basketball player Shaquille O'Neal, as she balances running her own business and taking care of her family. In season 2, episode 6 titled "Shablack," the focus is on the impact of colorism within the Black community.

The episode begins with Shaunie sitting down with her friend and skin care business partner, Tiffany. Shaunie reveals that she recently watched the documentary "Dark Girls" which explores the prejudices and biases against dark-skinned Black women. The documentary has made Shaunie think about her own experiences with colorism and how she has internalized certain beliefs about beauty.

From there, the episode shifts to Shaunie's daughter, Mimi, who is struggling with her own insecurities about her skin tone. Mimi expresses that she feels like she isn't "Black enough" because she has a lighter complexion and often feels like she doesn't fit in with her peers. Shaunie listens and offers words of encouragement, but also acknowledges that she has contributed to some of Mimi's feelings by complimenting her on her lighter skin.

The issue of colorism is also touched upon in Shaunie's home as her son, Shareef, discusses his experiences playing basketball. Shareef talks about how he sometimes feels like he is expected to be better because he is lighter-skinned and has "good hair." He also reveals that he has had teammates tell him he isn't "Black enough" because of his complexion.

Outside of the O'Neal family, the episode also explores how colorism affects the dating world. One of Shaunie's friends, Tanisha, talks about her experiences dating as a dark-skinned woman and how she has been fetishized by men who are attracted to her skin tone. Another friend, Tammy, expresses her own insecurities about her complexion and how she has felt like she needed to lighten her skin in order to be considered attractive.

As the episode comes to a close, Shaunie acknowledges that colorism is a problem that needs to be addressed within the Black community. She talks about the importance of uplifting all shades of Blackness and not perpetuating harmful beliefs around beauty. The episode ends with Shaunie and her friends having an open and honest conversation about colorism and how they can work towards dismantling it.

Overall, "Shablack" is a thought-provoking episode that sheds light on a topic that is often brushed under the rug. Through personal anecdotes and experiences, the episode explores how colorism affects all aspects of life and why it needs to be addressed. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in issues of race and beauty standards.