Researcher(s)
- Destiny Spivey, Human Services, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Roderick Carey, Human Development and Family Sciences, University of Delaware
Abstract
Media has become an evolving feature for human beings to not only enjoy but to stay connected with the world around them. Additionally, representation has always played an important role when it comes to magazines, news articles, Television shows, and film. With that being said, it is clear to recognize that Black people have always had a steady image to portray in front of the camera – where they are often portrayed as violent, intimidating, destructive or clowns.
Black Masculinity in the media has always been an adjustment as we reach a new decade. It can often be defined as the qualities that shape Black men and young boys. However, they are best observed through their roles in media, represented through fatherhood, brotherhood, or as a supervisor. Essentially, this research will dive deep into the evolution of Black Masculinity and how the representation of the Black male has been depicted over time. By critically examining a wide range of films and television shows, this project will reveal what the Black male represented but what he did not.
In terms of results, it is clear to recognize that the evolution of Black masculinity has gone through a series of changes over the years. In the early 1900s, Black males were impersonated by white males before Black people could even be casted as a role for a special film or TV series. Most of the films created between the 1920s to the 1940s were created by white producers and directors only shaping one ignorant perception of the Black male. Transitioning over to the 1950s to 1970s where Blaxploitation was released to society showcasing a violent, intimidating image of Black masculinity as being destructive and harmful.
To conclude, it is safe to say that the filming business continues to be a work in progress. By providing more representation of Black people as screenwriters, directors, and producers, they are able to write their own story in a new lens. This gives society a new perceptive on how the Black masculinity is viewed as well as how others treat them. Producing a sense of inclusivity and adding complexities to human character.