Paris Jackson, the only daughter of the legendary pop icon Michael Jackson, recently shared her perspective on her identity, proudly stating that she identifies as a Black woman despite her mixed-race heritage. Her declaration is not just a personal affirmation but also a tribute to her father’s legacy, both musically and culturally.

In an interview, Paris revealed, “I consider myself Black. My father would always remind me, ‘You’re Black, and you should be proud of your roots.’” This sentiment reflects the deep bond she shared with her father, who instilled in her a strong sense of cultural pride and self-awareness.

A Glimpse Into Paris Jackson’s Early Life

Born on April 3, 1998, Paris is the daughter of Michael Jackson and Debbie Rowe. Growing up in the spotlight wasn’t easy for her or her siblings, Prince (27) and Bigi (22). Michael, known for fiercely guarding his children’s privacy, often used veils, masks, and even blankets to shield them from paparazzi and public scrutiny.

Despite their unconventional upbringing, those close to the Jackson family described Paris and her brothers as “well-mannered and level-headed children.” Michael was deeply invested in their upbringing, making their well-being his top priority.

However, after Michael Jackson’s passing in 2009, the protective shield around Paris and her siblings vanished. Suddenly thrust into the public eye, Paris became a frequent target for media attention and invasive paparazzi tactics. This intense scrutiny took a toll on her mental health, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and severe paranoia.

In a candid interview, Paris shared, “I’ve been in therapy for a variety of reasons, but one of the biggest issues was dealing with audio hallucinations, like hearing camera clicks, and an overwhelming sense of paranoia.”

By the time she was 15 years old, Paris had made multiple attempts at suicide. In 2019, she voluntarily checked herself into a treatment facility to focus on her mental health, admitting that her struggles stemmed from “self-hatred, low self-esteem, and feelings of worthlessness.”

Her Support System: Prince Jackson

Despite her challenges, Paris found strength in her older brother, Prince Jackson. She once said, “He’s everything to me. I’ve always looked up to him, sought his approval, and tried to follow his example.”

Interestingly, Prince has often remarked that Paris shares an undeniable resemblance to their father—not just in physical features but also in her personality and passions. He noted, “In many ways, Paris is just like our dad. Her dedication, her intensity, her kindness—it’s all him.”

Carving Her Own Path

Paris Jackson isn’t just living in the shadow of her father’s monumental legacy; she’s carving her own unique path in both music and fashion. As the lead singer and guitarist for her band, The Soundflowers, Paris blends her love for folk-indie music with her unmistakable Jackson flair. She’s also made waves in the fashion industry, walking the runway for luxury brands like Chanel.

“Music runs in my family’s veins. I’m a Jackson, so it only makes sense that I’m a musician. But people are often surprised when they hear me play folk music instead of pop,” Paris once said in an interview.

Embracing Her Father’s Legacy

Michael Jackson’s racial identity was a deeply discussed topic during his lifetime. The pop legend, who was born African-American, suffered from Vitiligo, a skin condition that causes depigmentation. Despite widespread rumors about skin bleaching, Michael consistently stated that his changing appearance was due to this medical condition.

In a famous 1993 interview with Oprah Winfrey, Michael declared, “I am proud of my race. I am proud of who I am.”

Paris echoes her father’s pride and carries his message forward. In a 2017 interview with Rolling Stone, she shared, “I identify as Black. My dad would look me straight in the eye and tell me, ‘You’re Black, and you should be proud of it.’ I’ve always trusted his words because he never lied to me.”

However, her declaration hasn’t been free from criticism. Public figures, including talk show host Wendy Williams, have expressed skepticism. Wendy commented, “Black isn’t just about what you call yourself—it’s about how society sees you. But if that works for her, then great.”

Despite such opinions, Paris remains steadfast in her self-identification, emphasizing that her father’s guidance continues to shape her worldview.

Paris Jackson’s Enduring Legacy

Paris Jackson is more than just the daughter of a global icon; she is a resilient young woman who has faced immense challenges with courage and grace. Whether she’s on stage performing with her band, walking the runway for top fashion houses, or speaking openly about her struggles with mental health, Paris carries her father’s legacy with pride.

Her story isn’t just about her identity—it’s about resilience, self-discovery, and honoring the values her father instilled in her. Paris Jackson’s journey serves as an inspiration to many, reminding us of the power of self-acceptance and staying true to one’s roots.

What do you think about Paris Jackson’s decision to identify as a Black woman in honor of her father’s legacy? Share your thoughts, and let’s keep the conversation going!