The Problem With Colour Blindness
- fabydoano
- Aug 3, 2025
- 3 min read
You may have heard people say, “I don’t see colour” when talking about racism. It often comes from a good place; a wish to treat everyone the same, to be fair, kind, and inclusive.
But let’s pause for a moment and explore why this phrase, although well-meaning, can actually get in the way of real anti-racism.
What does “I don’t see colour” really mean?
When someone says this, they usually want to express that they don’t judge others based on their skin colour...
That sounds positive, right?
But in reality, not seeing colour means not seeing a big part of someone’s identity and lived experience. For people of colour, their skin colour is not something they can switch off; it shapes how they are seen, treated, and included (or not) in many spaces. It affects how safe they feel, how they are spoken to, and how they move through the world.
By saying “I don’t see colour,” we ignore these very real experiences. It can feel like someone is saying, “I don’t see what makes you… you.”
Seeing colour is not the problem...racism is
Racism goes beyond personal attitudes. It shows up in systems, structures, and power dynamics. It shapes who has access to opportunities, whose voices are heard, and who is excluded.
When we pretend race doesn’t exist, we also ignore the reality of racism and the impact it has on people’s daily lives.
To be anti-racist, we need to see colour and understand how it affects people differently. That’s how we begin to break down barriers, challenge injustice, and build workplaces and communities where everyone really belongs.
So, what can we say instead?
Try something like:
“I want to learn about people’s different backgrounds and experiences.”
“I recognise that race plays a role in how people are treated, and I want to be part of the change.”
“I’m committed to being anti-racist, not colour-blind.”
These statements open the door to real conversations and genuine connection.
It's OK to Get Things Wrong
This work can feel uncomfortable. You might worry about saying the wrong thing or offending someone. But growth doesn’t happen without mistakes. What matters most is staying open, listening when people give feedback, and being willing to keep learning. That’s where real change begins.
I believe most people want to do better but they just don’t always know how. Being anti-racist means listening, learning, and staying open. It’s not about being perfect, but about being honest and taking responsibility.
If this resonates with you and you want to explore this more in your organisation or team, I run interactive anti-racism and DEI workshops that create safe spaces for real learning.
Let’s talk.
Whether you're just starting out or looking to deepen your DEI efforts, our sessions go beyond checklists. We support you in building a workplace where everyone feels seen, respected, and valued.
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Your Partner in Positive Change
At Apoyo Courses, we believe that understanding is the first step towards transformation. Our approach, rooted in Fabiola's rich experience and cultural awareness, helps organisations like yours move beyond misconceptions to create environments where everyone feels valued and understood.
Our Mental Health, Anti-Racism, and DEI courses are designed to spark genuine conversations and deliver lasting impact. They empower your team to build a kinder, more inclusive, and mentally healthier world, one conversation at a time.
Ready to start that conversation in your organisation? Get in touch with Apoyo Courses today.
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