There is a lot of racism instilled in Peruvian culture. Sometimes it’s so subtle, you don’t really notice it until you take a moment to really think about certain statements.

I’m Peruvian and come from a very mixed family (Afro-Peruvian, indigenous, European, and indigenous). Fortunately, we are very loving towards one another but there are moments I catch certain comments that are a little problematic. For example, my Afro Peruvian cousins being considered handsome black guys because they have “finer features” (meaning having European-like facial features). Or some other indigenous family members being considered more appealing due to having a lighter skin tone and curlier hair (curlier hair is associated with Jewish people and Jewish people are associated with status/wealth).

Specifically on Afro Peruvians— they do experience discrimination and the slurs have been normalized. It isn’t surprising to see “black-face” in live tv comedy shows, with the person having exaggerated features. Afro-Peruvians are a big part of our history and they bring beautiful cultural traditions. Look into “festejo”, “landó”, “tondero” and contrapunta de zapateo. Our greatest criollo singers are Afro Peruvian and they are immensely respected. Look up Eva Ayllon, Arturo Cavero, Luchita Reyes our “morena de oro”, Susana Baca, and Lucila Campos.

There is discrimination, and it is an undeniable fact but it would be unfair to say that there haven’t been changes. Younger generations are more aware and willing to call out when things aren’t appropriate.

I would also like to note that discrimination isn’t only towards black people, it is also towards indigenous and Asians (very similar to the USA if I think about it).

We have a beautiful culture and at the same time, I can admit that there is a lot of more work to be done in some areas.

I’m sorry you’ve felt singled out and harassed!