Representation of Ethnicity

Learning Objectives…

• To discuss the way that African Americans are represented within different media texts

• To understand two new media theories related to ethnicity in the media

• To textually analyse one media text in terms of representation of ethnicity

What do these characters have in common?

What stereotypes are often associated with African Americans?

Alvarado Theory (1987)

Four Key Themes in Racial Representations:

• Exotic • Dangerous • Humorous • Pitied

Tokenism

Tokenism is a practice of limited inclusion or artistic and/or political representation of members of a traditionally marginalised group, usually creating a false appearance of inclusive practices rather than discrimination.These characters are often represented as blue collar workers.

E.G – Purposely including a member of a minority race such as a black character in an all white cast

• Homeland https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJoEz38T1uo

• Bend it like Beckham https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5_2NEAEdaQ

• Karate Kid https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SmmxvHLsKk

Textual analysis of the opening scene