Representation in media.

I must describe the need for representation in media, from the lens of myself - a middle eastern woman with large curly hair ! Growing up (so cliche...but...) I would cut out pictures of models out of magazines and post them on my wall. I have a very vivid image of a dior sunglass ad still embedded in my mind, of a very blonde thin model with glasses on. Aside from the fact that I am creative & I enjoy the beauty & aesthetics of photography, I never realized the affect not finding myself in media had. I am now in my 30's with a bit of low self esteem. I definitely have my lioness days when I feel full of confidence, but for the most part, I have never ever ever ever felt comfortable in groups at school or work, because no one ever looked like me. I have always felt other. When I was younger, kids would make fun of me because of my hair. The blonde girls excluded me and my ethnic friends from parties. When I was younger, I used to think it was because of my hair color. I didn't realize it was because of race & social status. It didn't even occur to me, because my heart is made of gold. Not only am I personally affected in the workplace, but my ethnic peers are also affected. And together, we have low self-esteem and constantly struggling to find our voice and be heard. Why should a caucasian individual care for my self-esteem? Because I can be a stronger partner, ally, and co-worker. My diversity also benefits the bottom line.