Education, Entertainment, and Culture: A Theoretical Analysis of The Media Representation of the HBCU

Abstract

Literature ReviewCritical race theory (CRT) originated from literature which had its origins in law, sociology, history, ethnic studies, and women's studies. The framework of CRT can focus on the racism, sexism, and classism embedded in the media (Campbell, 2017). The term critical race theory "suggests that a race-conscious reference point and opposition to the received tradition are the common bonds that hold together certain theories, values, and attitudes in the legal cosmos" (Brooks, 1994, p. 87). Brooks (1994) argues the central assumption of the theory to be that the American society and its institutions are fundamentally racist and that racism is a part of the normal operation of American society (p.90). In Brooks' article, Critical Race Theory: A Proposed Structure and Application to Federal Pleading (1994), he supports this idea of fundamental racism by acknowledging other critical race theory scholars such as Professor Charles Lawrence and Professor Derrick Bell, known as the father of critical race theory.Professor Lawrence, who specializes in antidiscrimination law, equal protection and critical race theory, states that "since racism is so deeply ingrained in our culture and is transmitted by tacit understandings, it is difficult to eradicate" (Brooks, 1994, p.90). Their views on the concept of racism in America as a part of the entire system of our country concludes that racism itself is permanent as "white racism is hegemonic, which is to say that 'all our institutions of education and information ... either knowingly or unknowingly 'provide the public rationale to justify, explain, legitimize, or tolerate racism" (Brooks, 1994, p.90). Both professors support Brooks' notion of fundamental racism by acknowledging the deeply rooted role of racism in society.Jones (2002) acknowledges that racism itself is a system that is built on the opportunities and values based on how people look or their individual observable characteristics. This system of racism includes institutionalized racism and systemic racism. She defines institutionalized Carol: "You know his father taught him how to drive. I told Bootsie if he wrecks one more car I'm putting his behind in the street with his father. You have children?" Colonel Taylor: "Oh yea, I've got two. Terrence and Suzanne. Of course now they're both spending the Winter in Germany with their mother. Which means when they get back they'll be able to disobey me in two languages." Carol: "Suzanne. My second husband married a woman named Suzanne." Colonel Taylor: "No kidding." Carol: "Well her name was really Susan but he started calling her Suzanne after Mardi Gras one year. You know, the French are famous for two things, the other one is cooking." Colonel Taylor: *coughing* Carol: "Oh I'm so sorry. I'm just sitting here puffing away." Colonel Taylor: "You know I've been trying for years to stop. I've tried everything. Shick, Bic, Slick. It's awful. Right after my second divorce I moved right up to three packs a day." Colonel Taylor: "Well, now, what worked for me wa...