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?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AskNGJarOUU

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.

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

Textual analysis of the opening scene