6 chapters across the catalog
The discussion turns to colorism within the Black community, referencing the "paper bag test" used by elite social groups. Mo explains how lighter skin has historically been associated with higher status and "privilege" in rooms where darker-skinned individuals might be excluded. They note that colorism is a global phenomenon present in India and Latin America as well.
The hosts discuss the revelation that members of the royal family had "concerns" about the skin color of Harry and Meghan's son, Archie. They compare this to the "paper bag test" historically used in some African American communities and question the hypocrisy of the public outcry. The discussion notes that Harry and Meghan refused to name the individual who made the comments, which the hosts view as a strategic move to maintain leverage while appearing as victims.
A clip featuring Matthew Knowles, father of Beyoncé, details the "brown paper bag test" formerly used at Fisk University to determine admission based on skin tone. The hosts express shock that such practices continued into the 1970s at historically Black colleges. They discuss how successful Black men like O.J. Simpson or Tiger Woods are sometimes "grafted" into white society, effectively bypassing traditional racial barriers.
A 1928 letter from a Howard University student is read, exposing color discrimination within black fraternities and sororities. The letter describes how light-skinned students were prioritized for membership while darker students were excluded. The hosts note that Kamala Harris is an alumna of Howard and a member of the organizations mentioned in the context of the "Boule."
Matthew Knowles recounts his experience at Fisk University in 1972, where the school still utilized the "brown paper bag test" for admissions. Photos were compared against a bag to ensure students were not too dark, unless they were athletes or from exceptionally wealthy families. The hosts characterize this as a clear example of institutional racism occurring within black institutions.
The "brown paper bag test" and "pencil test" are discussed as historical methods used by black sororities and elite families to exclude those with darker skin or certain hair textures. Alicia Garza is noted for acknowledging that a spectrum exists where those closer to "white" are generally better off in the US.
