Anti-racism: Media Literacy In Schools

As radio and television stations have become large predominantly white corporate entities, it has become increasingly difficult for people from communities of color to own radio and television stations. The existence of racism, low economic status, and lack of access to technology often prohibit media makers of color from voicing their opinions (Free Press, n.d.). According to a report by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration people of color owned only 449 (3.8 percent) of full-power commercial radio and television stations in the United States by 2001(Free Press, n.d.). These predominantly white owned companies and institutions often project negative racial images in the media that ultimately influences the way people think about race and how society functions. Because of this, it is important for students to recognize how communities of color have historically been misrepresented in the media in order to breakdown the stereotypes that have been embedded in society. Media literacy is slowly becoming an accepted field of study for educators to research and teach (Yosso, 2002). Media Literacy is “the ability to access, analyze, and produce information for specific outcomes” (Schwarz et al., 2005, 11). The purpose of a school wide curriculum that includes media literacy is for students to have the opportunity to learn how to ask critical questions that allow the students analyze and recognize socially constructed stereotypes within the media. Students will learn how every day image constructions can be driven by money and influenced by media makers’ personal opinions which in turn will empower students to challenge the dominant discourse. Media literacy curriculum will challenge students to find, develop, publicly present, and apply their voices as agents of social change. Students will learn how to use media to perpetuate a positive view of race and inform others about media literacy. Through this understanding, students will gain perspective about the importance of equal racial control and operation of media production.