Reflecting on implicit bias, colorism, and my role in public health

In this reflective essay, the writer explores their personal experience with implicit biases after completing three Implicit Association Tests (IAT) related to race, religion, and ethnicity. The essay highlights a moderate preference for light-skinned Black individuals, a moderate preference for Arab Muslims, and a slight preference for Asian Americans—results that prompted the writer to reflect deeply on the influence of cultural colorism rooted in their Pakistani and Chinese upbringing. By connecting these insights to real-world implications in public health, the writer emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing unconscious biases in professional practice. The essay thoughtfully argues that implicit preferences can contribute to health disparities and hinder equitable care, particularly when they go unexamined. Through this reflection, the writer commits to advocating for inclusive and bias-aware practices in future public health work, especially in challenging colorism and promoting equity in community health settings.

* The sample essays are for browsing purposes only and are not to be submitted as original work to avoid issues with plagiarism.