Paris Jackson, the daughter of the late pop icon Michael Jackson, has once again addressed questions about her racial identity, stating firmly that she identifies as a Black woman. Despite ongoing public debate and confusion surrounding her background, Paris remains open and honest about how she sees herself and honors her father’s legacy.
A Personal Truth Rooted in Family History
Paris, born in 1998 to Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe, has often been at the center of public scrutiny due to her appearance, which many have argued does not reflect her claimed racial background. Michael Jackson, who proudly identified as a Black man, raised Paris and her siblings as Black and made sure they understood their heritage.
Speaking in past interviews, Paris shared that her father instilled pride in their identity from a very young age. “I consider myself Black,” she once stated during an appearance on The Oprah Winfrey Show’s Next Chapter. “He would look me in the eye and he’d point his finger at me and he’d be like, ‘You’re Black. Be proud of your roots.’”
Criticism and Confusion from the Public
Paris has faced criticism and skepticism online for identifying as Black, largely due to her lighter skin tone and blue eyes. Social media users and even media outlets have often questioned whether she should claim a Black identity at all. However, Paris has remained consistent in her message: identity goes beyond physical appearance and is deeply tied to upbringing, culture, and personal experience.
She has emphasized that racial identity is not solely based on skin tone but on heritage, cultural influence, and familial ties. For her, being Michael Jackson’s daughter means not just inheriting his legacy in music but also embracing the culture and identity he gave her.
Proud of Her Background Despite Judgment
Despite being under a magnifying glass for most of her life, Paris has maintained a strong sense of self. She has repeatedly said that she honors the lessons her father taught her and feels no need to justify her identity to others.
“I know who I am inside,” she once said in an interview. “My father raised me to know I am a Black woman. That’s who I am, and I don’t need anyone’s approval.”
While she acknowledges the privilege that comes with her appearance, especially in terms of how society treats her, she also points out that identity and experience are far more complex than public assumptions.
Navigating Fame, Identity, and Pressure
Growing up in the spotlight as Michael Jackson’s daughter hasn’t been easy for Paris. She has faced constant media attention, personal struggles, and intense pressure to define herself on the public’s terms. Yet, she continues to assert her own voice through music, activism, and public statements that reflect her values. Paris is also known for using her platform to speak out on mental health, LGBTQ+ rights, and racial justice—causes close to her heart.
Conclusion
Paris Jackson’s statement about identifying as a Black woman is a reflection of her upbringing, her father’s influence, and her deep personal understanding of who she is. While some continue to question her identity, Paris remains grounded in her truth. Her openness highlights the complexities of race, identity, and legacy in today’s world—and her story continues to challenge assumptions and invite conversation.
