Takara Allen had the perfect response.

Of course, I am not the first person to become sick over my skin's complexion. Throughout history people's infatuation with rosy cheeks or pale skin have compelled them to make some questionable decisions.

As whiteness increases, the externally-imposed restrictions on one's identity decreases. It is this ability to be seen for one's identity as opposed to their race that minorities seek to attain when they engage in skin whitening.

The pushback is heartening and well-intentioned, but misses what ought to be the real shame target: India. After all, despite being a country of almost a billion people, India has left it to America to crown the first Indian beauty queen who looks... well, Indian.