In your last short writing assignment, please write at least a two-page essay, where you discuss the importance of representation/diversity in the arts and its impact on individuals and society (American or global).
Explore how diverse representation in the arts can challenge existing stereotypes, empower historically marginalized communities and groups, and promote inclusivity.
Provide examples from at least one art form such as film, photography, or visual arts to show the significance of representation and its potential to shape cultural narratives.
End your essay by writing at least one paragraph that considers the role of artists*, audiences (American or global), and institutions (such as film/TV studios or networks like Hulu and Netflix) in promoting and establishing diverse representation and explain the potential benefits and challenges of striving for greater inclusivity in the arts.
*NOTE: When I say artists here, I am not talking specifically about BIPOC or LGBTQIA+ persons per se; I am talking about Caucasian artists that have benefited from the privilege that comes from being a part of the accepted, historically-dominant culture. Also, do understand that there is no “blame game” going on here between cultures.
As writers and scholars, we have to recognize the challenges of the world we live in as well as not to place undue burden on artists of color or the LGBTQIA+ (or both simultaneously) community to be responsible for carrying the full load of representation or diversity in the arts.
For more information on this, please see articles on racial battle fatigueLinks to an external site. and tokenismLinks to an external site.