physically describing characters (or not)

[Euryleia]

I'd add that the only time I bother with detailed physical characteristics is if I am alluding to an interesting ethnic diversity or cultural background. If her Hispanic origins are germane to my story line, I'll describe her dark, flashing eyes and long black hair. If not, I tend to draw broad outlines and let it go at that.

While I understand where you are coming from, be careful about limiting your descriptions to just your non-white characters. If you only provide details about those who are different, it can serve to jar the reader out of the story and for them to question your motives. It happened to me and its a tough charge to refute. I learned the hard way that being a pornographer is one thing; its entirely another to be considered a racist.