👥Race and Gender in Media Unit 7 – Race and Gender in Television

Key Concepts and Theories

• Representation refers to how different groups are portrayed in media including their visibility, characterization, and roles
• Stereotypes are oversimplified, generalized beliefs about a particular group that are often negative or limiting
  • Can lead to prejudice and discrimination in real life
• Tropes are commonly recurring themes, motifs, or devices in storytelling that often perpetuate stereotypes (Magical Negro, Spicy Latina)
• Intersectionality examines how various aspects of identity such as race, gender, class, and sexuality intersect and shape experiences and representation
• Cultivation theory suggests repeated exposure to media messages can shape viewers' perceptions of reality over time
• Social cognitive theory proposes media can influence behavior through observational learning and modeling
• Critical race theory analyzes how race and racism are embedded in societal structures including media institutions and content

Historical Context of TV Representation

• Early television in the 1950s-60s featured limited representation of minorities with stereotypical roles (Amos 'n' Andy)
• Civil Rights Movement in the 1960s led to increased pressure for more diverse and positive representation
• 1970s saw emergence of Black sitcoms (The Jeffersons, Good Times) though often relying on stereotypes
• 1980s-90s introduced more diverse ensemble casts and complex characters (The Cosby Show, A Different World)
  • Still lacked representation of other minorities like Latinos and Asians
• 2000s saw a rise in LGBTQ+ visibility though often in stereotypical or secondary roles (Will & Grace)
• Recent years have pushed for more authentic, multidimensional representation across various identities (Pose, Insecure)

Stereotypes and Tropes in Television

• Common stereotypes for Black characters include the Magical Negro, sassy sidekick, or criminal/thug
• Latina characters often portrayed as spicy, sexy, or feisty (Sofia Vergara in Modern Family)
• Asian characters frequently depicted as nerdy, submissive, or foreign (Han Lee in 2 Broke Girls)
  • Model minority myth portrays Asians as universally successful
• Native Americans largely invisible or shown as historical relics, savages, or spiritual guides
• Muslim characters often linked to terrorism or religious extremism
• LGBTQ+ characters historically portrayed as flamboyant, promiscuous, or tragic figures
  • Bury Your Gays trope depicts queer characters meeting unfortunate ends
• Disabled characters often inspire pity or painted as helpless victims

Intersectionality on Screen

• Intersectionality recognizes individuals have multiple, overlapping identities that shape their experiences
• Television has often failed to capture intersectional experiences, focusing on single aspects of identity
• Characters of color, especially women, frequently relegated to supporting roles or stereotypes (sassy Black friend, submissive Asian love interest)
  • Lack of complex, multidimensional representation
• LGBTQ+ characters of color face erasure or limited to coming out narratives
• Working-class characters of color depicted in stereotypical jobs or as struggling/dysfunctional
• Disabled characters of color nearly invisible in mainstream television
• Recent shows like Pose, Gentefied, and Reservation Dogs explore nuanced intersectional stories
  • But still a need for more intersectional representation both on screen and behind the scenes

Case Studies: Groundbreaking Shows

• I Love Lucy (1951-1957) featured an interracial couple and challenged gender norms though still reinforced some stereotypes
• Star Trek (1966-1969) showcased a diverse cast and tackled social issues through sci-fi lens
  • Included one of the first interracial kisses on television
• The Cosby Show (1984-1992) portrayed an upper-middle-class Black family, challenging stereotypes
• Ellen (1994-1998) made history when the lead character came out as gay in 1997
• The Wire (2002-2008) offered a complex, nuanced portrayal of urban life and institutional racism
• Orange is the New Black (2013-2019) featured a diverse, intersectional cast of women in prison
• Transparent (2014-2019) centered on a transgender woman's transition and family dynamics
  • But faced criticism for casting a cisgender man in the lead role
• Pose (2018-2021) featured the largest transgender cast on television and explored ballroom culture

Behind the Scenes: Industry Diversity

• Historically, television writers' rooms, directors, and executives have been predominantly white and male
  • Lack of diverse perspectives behind the scenes impacts representation on screen
• Studies show that diversity behind the camera leads to more authentic, nuanced representation
• Initiatives like inclusion riders aim to increase diversity in hiring both on and off screen
• Despite some progress, marginalized groups still underrepresented in key creative roles
  • In 2020, only 25% of TV creators were people of color and 29% were women
• Barriers include biased hiring practices, lack of mentorship/networks, and limited opportunities
• Increasing diversity requires systemic changes and commitment from industry leaders
  • Setting diversity targets, implementing bias training, and investing in diverse talent pipelines

Impact on Viewers and Society

• Television representation can shape viewers' attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors
• Positive, nuanced representation can promote empathy, understanding, and acceptance
  • Shows like Will & Grace and Modern Family helped shift public opinion on LGBTQ+ rights
• Negative stereotypes can reinforce prejudice and lead to real-world discrimination
  • Stereotypical portrayals of minorities as criminals can fuel racist attitudes and policies
• Lack of representation can make marginalized groups feel invisible or devalued
• Media literacy education can help viewers critically analyze media messages and representation
• Television has the power to challenge societal norms and push for social change
  • But also has a responsibility to avoid perpetuating harmful stereotypes and erasure

Current Trends and Future Directions

• Streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu have provided new opportunities for diverse storytelling
  • Shows like Orange is the New Black, Master of None, and Ramy center diverse, intersectional experiences
• Social media has amplified calls for better representation and accountability in the industry
  • #OscarsSoWhite and #RepresentationMatters have sparked important conversations
• Increase in BIPOC-led production companies and initiatives to support underrepresented talent
• Growing recognition of the importance of authentic representation and storytelling
  • Consulting with communities being portrayed to avoid stereotypes and inaccuracies
• Continued push for more diversity and inclusion at all levels of the industry
  • Both on screen and in key behind-the-scenes roles like writing, directing, and producing
• Need for more intersectional representation that reflects the complexity of real-life identities and experiences
• Ongoing challenges include systemic barriers, limited opportunities, and resistance to change within the industry