The lack of representation in movies is not an issue that we are unaware of, and has been a recurring problem since the industry was created. From culture to religion, almost every aspect has been affected and will continue to be unless we stop.
You might think that it is out of your control, but there are many ways to tackle this issue, such as supporting internet campaigns that help address the lack of representation.
Many people find that diversity helps them connect with the characters better. Studies from TelevisaUnivision show that 80% of people want more diversity in movies. These aspects of characters shine a light on what life is actually like and how that helps people.
According to Common Sense Media, about 6 in 10 parents say that they find it is beneficial for their children to be represented in movies. Even teens these days think that it is very harmful to have people look so different from you on screen.
Media representation helps kids build a sense of perspective that is hard to find otherwise.
According to Common Sense Media, stereotypical representations of characters when shown to people, especially when they are young, starts to integrate negative ideals into their minds that will imprint on their thoughts throughout their lifetime. Not only that but the same source also cites that 70% of parents want their kids to experience more cultures, religions or lifestyles.
A prominent example of this lack of representation is Disney movies, where they didn’t start showing harmless portrayals of different cultures and people until the 90s. According to Sage Journals, Disney animated films released from 1937 to 2021, almost 70% of the characters were white, whereas other races only made up about 30%.
People may think that their support won’t do anything but even the smallest effort to help tackle this will make an impact. The more we are able to raise awareness, the more we are able to help address this lack of representation in movies. Go support your favorite internet campaign on GoFundMe to help with this problem in any way you can.
