Why Representation Matters in Health Textbooks and Beyond

A critical look at the lack of Black representation in wellness education materials

Let’s get real: how many of us saw ourselves in our school health textbooks? And no, we’re not talking about that one blurry stock photo of a vaguely brown person in a doctor's coat on page 42.

When it comes to health and wellness education, the lack of Black representation isn’t just disappointing—it’s dangerous. Because when the stories, bodies, and experiences of Black women are left out of the conversation, the result is a system that fails to serve us.

At BLK + GRN, we’re all about flipping that script. Whether it’s the natural ingredients in our products or the Black artisans who make them, we believe in rewriting the narrative—literally.

The Problem Starts Early

Think back to middle or high school health class. What did you learn about your body? Your mental health? Nutrition? If you’re a Black girl, chances are the lessons didn’t reflect your reality.

Most mainstream health textbooks were—and still are—written through a white, male lens. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Medical Humanities states that less than 5% of medical textbook imagery featured people with darker skin tones. That’s a problem. When students only see health framed through white bodies, it sends a subtle but powerful message: this information isn’t for you.

Education platforms like WritePaper are sttarting to counter this imbalance by encouraging inclusive academic content and offering students the tools to critically examine outdated material. Because here's the truth: Black girls deserve to see themselves in every chapter—especially the ones about health, self-care, and wellness.

Representation Impacts Outcomes (No, Seriously)

This isn’t just about “feeling seen” (although that’s important too!). The stakes are much higher.

Lack of representation in wellness education translates to real-life health disparities. For example:

• Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women, according to the CDC.
  
  
• Medical students have been shown to incorrectly believe that Black people have thicker skin or feel less pain—a myth rooted in centuries-old racism.
  

Where do these dangerous misconceptions start? Often, in the classroom.

That's why educational materials need to improve. Health textbooks should reflect the diversity of students' bodies, symptoms, and experiences. When we see ourselves in the mirror, we're more likely to trust and act on it.

Health Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

Let’s talk skin for a second. You know how frustrating it is when every skincare article or diagram only mentions pale, dry skin types? Yeah, we’ve been there too.

That’s why we at BLK + GRN partner with Black artisans who understand our skin, hair, and health concerns. From hyperpigmentation to hormonal imbalances, our bodies deserve specific care—not generic advice.

So, imagine how powerful it would be if wellness education followed suit.

What if high school health books explained how eczema looks on melanated skin? What if they talked about the stress-related disorders Black women face from navigating racism and microaggressions daily?

Spoiler alert: we’d all be healthier for it.

Beyond Textbooks: A Bigger Cultural Shift

Representation in education is only the tip of the iceberg. Let’s zoom out.

When we look at who gets featured in wellness campaigns, who gets cited in research, and who’s considered an “expert,” the pattern is clear: Black women are still underrepresented and undervalued.

But we’re changing that: one product, one blog post, one artisan at a time.

At BLK + GRN, every item in our marketplace is created by a Black woman who knows her craft. Whether it’s a turmeric face serum or an herbal tea blend, you’re supporting someone who understands the nuances of Black wellness from the inside out.

The Future of Wellness Education? It Looks Like Us

We believe every students deserves health education that's culturally competent, affirming, and inclusives. That includes:

• Images of diverse bodies with real skin tones and hair types
  
• Curriculum that names racism as a health determinant
  
• Lessons on self-care as a tool for resilience and emowerment
• Black-renowned brands (like ours!) are highlighted as wellness leaders.
  

Let’s give future generations the education we wish we had. One that says, “Your body matters. Your health matters. And you belong here.”

So, What Can You Do?

You don’t need to rewrite a textbook (although we support it if you do 👏🏽). Here are a few ways you can help:

Support Black-Owned Wellness Brands

When you shop from businesses created by and for Black communities—especially those focused on education and empowerment—you’re casting a vote for the world you want to live in. Brands like the ones featured at BLK + GRN don’t just sell products; they tell stories, elevate traditions, and create change from the ground up.

Speak Up in Schools

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or community advocate, your voice matters. Push for inclusive curriculum reform that reflects the full spectrum of human experience, especially the experiences of Black girls and women. Advocate for educational materials that include diverse skin tones, body types, and wellness journeys.

Share Your Knowledge

Conversations matter. Whether it’s at your dinner table, in a staff meeting, or on your social feed, talk about why representation in wellness education is essential. These discussions spark awareness and action, and they plant seeds that grow.

Practice Radical Self-Care

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s revolutionary. In a world that often sidelines Black women’s needs, prioritizing your wellness is an act of resistance. Whether journaling, deep conditioning, setting boundaries, or just saying no, your self-care is a form of leadership.

Final Thoughts: Representation Is Healing

Representation isn’t a trend or a “nice to have”—it’s a necessity, especially in wellness, education, and especially for Black women.

We’re not here to wait for systems to change. We’re here to build new ones. And at BLK + GRN, that means curating the best Black-owned products, championing holistic health, and ensuring our stories are front and center.

So pick up that journal, sip that herbal tea, and moisturize with intention. Because when we center Black women, we all rise.