Portrayal of Asian Americans in the Media

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Abstract My research focused on the coverage of Asian Americans in contemporary mass media. The following types of media were researched: · Music · Television · Films · Magazines I gave several examples where Asian Americans were used to play very simple characters. These roles were defined by stereotypes that exist in America. I also researched instances on counter actions taken by Asian Americans to protest against these negative images. My research also has examples of Asians that have succeeded in breaking through the racial barriers in the media. The results show that even though racial stereotyping still exists in various forms of mass media, there are signs that show noticeable improvement on allowing a more balanced image of Asian Americans. Statement of the Problem There are close to 12 million Asian Americans living in the United States (U.S. Asian, 2000). Asian Americans are considered one of the fastest growing minorities (Pimentel, 2001). Between 1990 and 1999, the Asian population rose 43% (Census, 2000). However, Asian Americans are still portrayed in a simplistic manner by the American media, which in turn, promotes stereotyping. I have researched various types of mass media in the United States, such as: music, films, television and magazines. I will focus on several examples where Asian Americans are portrayed in a negative way. Furthermore, I will give examples of musicians, and independent films that prove Asian Americans have potential on what they can contribute to in the American media. Finally, I will recommend different ways to rid the stereotype put on Asian Americans by actions that can be taken, not only pertaining to Asians, but to other ethnicities that face stereotypes on their culture. Background History Music in every country has a history going back hundreds of years. It is an excellent type of entertainment that any person can enjoy. America being such a diverse country, any person regardless of race or gender needs to be given a fair shot in an opportunity to showcase his or her talent. However, there is a lack of Asians Americans represented in America. Asian Americans must go above and beyond on what is expected in the industry, compared to white and black Americans who seem to have it much easier. “Always, it is the Asian who assimilates, who must explain his or her prese... ... middle of paper ... ...ty in televised international athletic events. (1995). Retrieved December 9, 2004 from http://www.aafla.org/9arr/ResearchReports/ResearchReport4.htm Restrictive portrayals of asians in the media and how to balance them. (2004). Retrieved December 9, 2004 from http://www.manaa.org/articles/stereo.html Thoughts on William Hung’s Inspiration. (2004, April 28). Retrieved December 9, 2004 from http://modelminority.com/modules.php?name=News&file=article&sid=760 U.S. Asian Population. (2000). Retrieved December 15, 2004 from http://print.infoplease.com/ipa/A0778584.html Wartofsky, A. (2004, December 1). Asian-American rapper isn’t downplaying heritage. The Wichita Eagle. Retrieved December 15, 2004, from http://www.kansas.com/mld/kansas/entertainment/10306249.htm Wu, F. H. (2002). Yellow: race in america beyond black and white. New York: Basic Books. Xu, R. (2004 April, 19). Details magazine sparks protest. The Harvard Crimson. Retrieved December 16, 2004, from http://www.thecrimson.com/article.aspx?ref=358868 Zia, H. (2000). Asian american dreams. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

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