Are papua new guineans black

A sensitive and complex question!

Papua New Guinea (PNG) is a country located in the Pacific Islands, and its population is diverse in terms of ethnicity, language, and physical appearance. While it is true that many Papua New Guineans have dark skin, it is not accurate to categorize them as "black" in the same way that people from Africa or Afro-Caribbean communities are often referred to as "black."

Here's why:

1. Genetic diversity: Papua New Guinea is home to over 800 languages and more than 1,000 ethnic groups, each with their own distinct culture and physical characteristics. The country's population is a result of thousands of years of migration and intermarriage between different groups, which has led to a rich genetic diversity.
2. Melanesian ancestry: The indigenous people of PNG, known as Melanesians, have a distinct genetic makeup that is different from that of Africans. While both groups have dark skin, their ancestry and physical characteristics are shaped by different evolutionary histories.
3. Physical characteristics: Papua New Guineans have a range of physical characteristics, including dark skin, curly hair, and facial features that are distinct from those of African or Afro-Caribbean people. They also have a higher frequency of certain physical traits, such as epicanthic folds (the skin fold at the inner corner of the eye) and a more prominent nose bridge.
4. Cultural identity: Papua New Guineans have a strong cultural identity that is shaped by their indigenous traditions, languages, and customs. While they may share some physical characteristics with people from Africa or Afro-Caribbean communities, their cultural identity is distinct and should not be reduced to a single racial or ethnic label.

In summary, while many Papua New Guineans have dark skin, it is not accurate to categorize them as "black" in the same way that people from Africa or Afro-Caribbean communities are often referred to as "black." Papua New Guineans are a distinct ethnic group with their own unique cultural identity, physical characteristics, and genetic makeup.