Sofia Richie Talks Encountering Racism in Hollywood

It’s no secret that the fashion world has a big problem when it comes to diversity. Season after season, the bulk of brands and designers fail to represent racial minorities in their editorials, campaigns, and runway shows. And although we have seen several improvements over the years, the industry as a whole continues to be overwhelmingly white. It definitely gives models of color a disadvantage, but Sofia Richie says the racism is much more prevalent in Hollywood.

“I’m very light, so some people don’t really know that I’m black. I’ve been in situations where people will say something kind of racist and I’ll step in and they’ll be like, ‘Oh, well, you’re light,’” said Sofia, who adds that in contrast she has never encountered any overt racism in the fashion world. “That still doesn’t cut it, buddy. It’s 2016—you better get your shit together before you get slapped out here.”

Read Sofia Richie's full cover story here and purchase the December/January issue here.