What is melanated?

Melanated refers to having skin, hair, and eyes rich in melanin. Melanin is a pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. It determines the color of skin, hair, and eyes and provides protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. People of African, Asian, and Indigenous descent often have higher concentrations of melanin, resulting in darker complexions. The term "melanated" is sometimes used as a positive affirmation of Black and Brown identity and culture. Discussions around being melanated often involve exploring themes of race, identity, and representation in media and society. It can also touch upon issues of colorism and the historical and ongoing discrimination faced by people with darker skin.