Racism: Unpacking its Impact and Representation in Media

Racism is a deeply entrenched belief system rooted in the perceived superiority of one race over others. It often manifests in discrimination and prejudice against individuals based on their race or ethnicity. The term "racism" has evolved over time and does not fit neatly into a single definition. The underlying ideas that fuel racist practices include the belief that humans can be divided into distinct groups with inherent differences in social behavior and capabilities. These groups are often ranked as inferior or superior, further entrenching societal inequalities.

While many people consider themselves non-racist and believe their close associates share this stance, the reality is that racism persists in subtle and overt forms. It is easy to attribute the problem solely to individuals who openly express racist views, but the issue is more systemic. A significant contributor to this problem is how media has historically portrayed minority groups. For centuries, minorities have been depicted as occupying the lowest social standings, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Consequently, many in non-minority groups perceive this as the norm and remain indifferent because it seemingly does not affect them directly. However, when racial issues do impact them, they may defensively deflect blame, perpetuating a cycle of prejudice. Thankfully, in recent times, both majority and minority communities are uniting to challenge these stereotypes, as evidenced by movements like Black Lives Matter and more authentic cultural representations in media. Despite these advancements, there is still a considerable journey toward true equality and understanding.

The Blind Side: A Case Study

"The Blind Side," a film released by Warner Bros. in 2009, grossed over $309.2 million at the box office. It is celebrated for its true story and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences, including upper-class white families and young African-Americans. The film touches on the historical centrality of African-Americans as a marginalized group in the United States, highlighting ongoing racial issues.

A poignant scene in the film illustrates racism's subtlety in upper-class southern society. The protagonist, a mother, is at a brunch with affluent friends when the conversation shifts to Michael, a teenage African-American boy she has taken in. The women joke about Michael's eating habits, insinuating that his presence might financially burden her family. Such remarks perpetuate stereotypes about African-Americans being over-indulgent and lacking self-control. The mother is visibly uncomfortable but defends Michael, emphasizing his goodness and dismissing the notion of racially motivated guilt.

The conversation shifts to adoption, with the women mocking the idea of legally adopting Michael, using his race and age as justifications. Adoption is a significant commitment, yet these women trivialize it, reflecting societal biases against interracial adoption. Many people have reported parents for alleged child abduction simply because of racial differences, highlighting deep-seated prejudices. The women fear social exile for associating with someone of a different race, revealing a worldview where they see themselves as superior and others as inferior. This mindset is further exposed when one friend questions the mother's motivations, suggesting "white guilt" as the reason for helping Michael. The mother counters this by asserting her choices and highlighting Michael's positive impact on her family.

Challenging Stereotypes

Despite the mother's efforts to educate her friends, the conversation takes a darker turn when one friend expresses concern about Michael's presence around the mother's daughter, Collins. The assumption that Michael is a threat due to his race and size is a harmful stereotype that persists today. The mother ultimately ends the brunch, expressing disappointment in her friends' narrow-mindedness.

This scene effectively depicts the challenges of integrating different races into predominantly white spaces. It showcases how one individual's courage can challenge and potentially change entrenched stereotypes. The portrayal of upper-class attitudes toward African-Americans sheds light on how these perceptions contribute to their marginalization. The media, influenced by upper-class perspectives, often amplifies these biases, resulting in skewed narratives that perpetuate racial inequality. If a crisis affects a wealthy family, it dominates headlines, often attributing blame to minorities. Conversely, minority issues receive less attention, maintaining the status quo.

The societal impact of these entrenched notions is profound, creating a divide that seems insurmountable. Movements like Black Lives Matter aim to bridge this gap, advocating for equality and justice. However, genuine change requires individuals to abandon stereotypes and evaluate people as individuals, free from racial bias. Until society embraces this mindset, upper-class individuals will continue to wield disproportionate influence, perpetuating harmful stereotypes and blaming minorities for societal problems. Meanwhile, the majority overlooks the transgressions of their own, highlighting the need for consistent standards and a collective commitment to equality. Life is challenging enough without the added burden of racism and prejudice, and it is imperative that we strive for a more inclusive and equitable world.

Did you like this example?

500

26