Genially_copy - African/American and Television

EARLY REPRESENTATION OF AFRICAN/AMERICANS IN TELEVISION

Early Stereotypical Representations (1930s–1970s)

Index

Introduction

EXPLICIT BIAS

THE FUTURE

CONCLUSION

REFERENCE/CITATION

Introduction

+ INFO

EXPLICIT BIAS

Historically, African American representation in television has evolved from deeply stereotypical portrayals to more complex and diverse narratives. In the early days of TV, shows like Amos ‘n’ Andy (1950s) featured Black characters in caricatured, often demeaning roles, reinforcing racist stereotypes. The 1970s introduced sitcoms like Good Times and The Jeffersons, which depicted Black families but often relied on tropes of poverty or upward mobility struggles. The 1980s and 1990s saw a shift with The Cosby Show and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, showcasing successful Black families and offering more positive representations.

CULTIVATION THEORY

Theory that the more Television a Person watches the more they are adopt attitudes and beliefs based on Television

Today, television features greater diversity with shows like Black-ish, Insecure, and Atlanta, which explore Black identity in nuanced ways. However, challenges remain, including underrepresentation behind the scenes, colorism, and the continued portrayal of Black trauma. Future changes should focus on increasing Black creators in leadership roles, diversifying narratives beyond racial struggles, and ensuring authentic representation across all genres.

4. Contemporary Representation and Diversity (2000s–Present) • Example 5: Black-ish (2014–2022) – Tackles race, identity, and systemic issues while centering a successful Black family.

01

Necessary Changes in Television

and the way forward

Content Creation • Move beyond trauma-focused narratives and expand storytelling to include genres like sci-fi, fantasy, and historical fiction. • Develop more multi-dimensional Black characters with varied experiences, interests, and cultural backgrounds. • Avoid reinforcing stereotypes related to criminality, hypersexualization, or poverty.

Casting • Increase diversity in roles, ensuring representation of all skin tones, body types, and backgrounds within the Black community. • Challenge colorism by casting darker-skinned actors in leading roles, rather than relegating them to supporting or antagonistic characters. • Prioritize authenticity by casting Black actors in culturally specific roles instead of whitewashing characters.

Interactivity

Creativity

Animation

NECESSARY CHANGES IN TELEVISION

Industry Leadership • Increase Black representation in key decision-making roles (writers, directors, producers, and executives) to ensure authentic storytelling. • Provide funding and platforms for Black creators to develop original content. • Hold networks and streaming services accountable for equitable hiring practices and diverse programming.

THE FUTURE

THE ROLE OF BLACK MEDIA

The Future of Representation • How streaming platforms (Netflix, Hulu) have diversified storytelling. • The potential for social media and independent Black creators to reshape narratives.

Prioritize it and give visual weight to the main points.

Measure the results.

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CONCLUSION

COGNITIVE SCHEMAS:

Such frames of references or schemas are cognitive frameworks that represent our knowledge of and assumptions about the world.

REFERENCE/CITATION

Luther Text, Chapter 4: Representations of African Americans (Race & Ethnicity) https://www.history.com/news/black-tv-shows-culture https://lasentinel.net/black-history-black-families-in-television-and-film.html https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2017/01/claiming-the-future-of-black-tv/514562/ https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/article/biggest-tv-milestones-in-black-history/

DONE AND WRITTEN BY: PETER BOAKYE NORTHERN KENTURKY UNIVERSITY

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