Apr 17, 2014

Karyn Washington of ForBrownGirls, Dead at 22


Karyn Washington, creator of "For Brown Girls" and "Dark Skin, Red Lips", is dead at the tender young age of 22. Her death is an apparent suicide.

 Black women have long been acclaimed for carrying an overwhelming burden, while being denigrated, ridiculed and oppressed. They are seen as less desirable than other women and they most often live a life of continuous struggle. Karyn was dedicated to uplifting dark-skinned black girls and women, firmly committed to giving them a sense of well being. Yet, she struggled with depression and mental illness.

Karyn’s haunting words from ForBrownGirls.com are heartbreaking, as her vision has always been to empower…

 “As humans, regardless of color, age, socio-economic status, gender, and other characteristics, we MUST build each other up rather than tear each other down in order to change the world and create a better place for our children and future generations. As women, it is imperative as well as our duty to love ourselves unconditionally, smile and laugh often, and NEVER allow ANYONE to steal our joy.”

May "ForBrownGirls", her legacy, continue to thrive and may the ideals that she fostered about mutual support and self love strengthen those who loved her and those who come behind her. Know that it's no sin or shame to be vulnerable, to feel like buckling under life's pressures, and to need help.
Learn from Karyn's life to ask for friendship, love and a supportive hand. Karyn said "don't give up on your dreams". 

Rest in Peace, Karyn.

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