We have had a lot of in-depth discussions this semester
regarding race and the controversies that still arise in the media today. My
main takeaway from Comm458 has been that we, as a society, are slowly moving towards a
more liberal future that allows for expressions of individuality while
promoting unity. However, ignoring racial differences and being somewhat unwilling to explore different ideologies creates a very prejudiced society
that will move away from an establishment of equality and toward one of intolerance.
We have seen through the films and talks that we have
watched that racism and segregation is still a major problem in
today’s world. The cycle of the news and media constantly display people in
stereotypical manners. The passages we read have shown that themes and
instances of the past are still prevalent in the present. This is problematic
for taking the next step forward. We must acknowledge race in order to overcome
the obstacles that stem from narrow-mindedness.
It is possible to reach this ideal world where racism is no
longer a part of everyday life but it starts with us. In order to break the
cycle of the portrayal of stereotypes in the news media, we must strive for a
society that promotes acceptance and understanding. Seeking “good” creates a
different cycle – a positive cycle. This cycle funnels into the media and then
communicates a message of positive receptivity, which influences others to seek
a world of the same nature. Judgmental attitudes can be eliminated but it starts with one statement in one place
from one person. To quote Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits in the classic rock
song, “Brothers in Arms,” he states, “We have just one world, but we live in
different ones.” It is important to be understanding of differences and acknowledge race in order
for all to unite and live peacefully in one world without prejudice present in everyday activity.
Matt I feel it is possible and I would like to see a world where racism in not a constant everyday battle in society especially in todays modern liberal era. However you have to keep in perspective that African Americans have been treated as second-class citizens since the inception of this country. Stereotypes of African Americans as lazy, stupid, foolish, cowardly, submissive, irresponsible, childish, violent, sub-human, and animal-like, are rampant in today's society. These degrading stereotypes are reinforced and enhanced by the negative portrayal of African Americans in the media rap music industry. The media sets the tone for the morals, values, and images of our culture. Many people in this country, some of whom have never encountered black people, believe that the degrading stereotypes of blacks are based on reality and not fiction. Everything they believe about blacks is determined by what they see on television and hear through rap music. After over a century of music making, these horrible stereotypes continue to plague us today, and until negative images of blacks are extinguished from the media, blacks will be regarded as second-class citizens. But after this course maybe you and I along with our classmates just simply from the great exposure of information and discussions we can make a difference in other individuals lives and perceptions.
ReplyDelete-Georgia T.