Arab/Arab American

Arab/Arab American

by Abby Kruetzkamp

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Past representations 1980-2009

Terrorists- Arab people often find themselves unfairly labeled as such. In 2009, students were asked what they would call an Arabic person. Shockingly, 15% of 75 students chose 'terrorists '. This was eight years after the tragic events of 9/11, a time when such stereotypes were at their peak. But this is not just about knowledge. The media, with movies like 'The Delta Force' (1985), 'Iron Eagle' (1986), 'True Lies' (1994), and 'Rules of Engagement' (2000), Has played a significant role in perpetuating this unfair image of Arabs as terrorists. Terrorist definition- a person who uses unlawful violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in the pursuit of political aims. source: Diversity in U.S. Mass Media 2nd Edition

Arabs are often confused with muslims. However it is not their culture.

Arabs were "suspects" to crimes. Events like 9/11 tend to make all arabs bad.

present representations

Since 2009, not much has changed in the representation of Arabs has seen some changes since 2009. While there has been some progress in the portrayal of Arabs in media and entertainment, there are still persistent stereotypes and misrepresentations that continue to shape public perception. It's important to acknowledge the strides that have been made while also recognizing the work that still needs to be done to ensure fair and accurate representation—the representations of Arabs.

cognitive schemas

Cognitive schemas are a mental framework that helps people interpret and understand the world by organizing information and guiding their behavior. i.e., stereotypes The stereotype of an arab is dangerous, terrorist, suspect, etc.

When you think of an arab, these things come into mind due to the media. The media find a situation and make it worse than it is. People don't talk about the good stuff around it all. It's all about finding these people and hurting them because they are not "abnormal."

No matter who you are, where you come from, your religion, you belong. - Anon

social construction of reality theory

The social construction of reality theory is a mental framework that helps people interpret and understand the world by organizing information and guiding their behavior. Many arab films and stories have been told to show that not everyone is terrible.

Many Arabs try to counter negative stereotypes in the media by actively participating in community events, promoting cultural understanding, and highlighting positive contributions made by Arab individuals and communities. They often strive to showcase their rich heritage, strong family values, and diverse cultural traditions to provide a more balanced and accurate representation in the media. Therefore, they are trying to give the media a new pathway of thought.

Unique is good - Anon

Why is media examples impactful?

People speak up about one thing, and that blows up, so we no longer know the truth. Anything in the media is there forever, so someone is always going to find a negative. The press takes one thing and makes it more significant than it is. Only 1.2%-3.5% of Arabs live in the U.S., and many people think that the total percentage is dangerous people. When they could be mothers and their children or run from bad things that are happening in their home country. We don't know what else is going on much of the time and jump to conclusions based on the media's representation of it all.

Conclusions

We need to change images to have a more positive impact.

Why?

Changing media images can have a more positive impact for several reasons. Firstly, by representing a diverse range of body types, ethnicities, and backgrounds, the media can promote inclusivity and help individuals feel more represented and accepted. This can lead to increased self-esteem and confidence among people who may have previously felt marginalized or excluded. Additionally, portraying more realistic and diverse images in the media can help combat harmful stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of beauty and identity. Overall, by embracing a more inclusive and authentic portrayal of people in the media, we can create a healthier and more positive societal environment for everyone.

“Equality is the soul of liberty; there is, in fact, no liberty without it.”

— Frances Wright, Scottish Writer