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risheet · 2 months
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Multimedia Journal Summary #4
In my multimedia journal, I examined "Fresh Off the Boat," "Black Panther," and the Instagram account @youngblackandaware, focusing on themes of power, representation, privilege, and difference in America. "Fresh Off the Boat" uses humor to explore the Asian American experience, addressing issues like cultural assimilation and identity, which reinforced my understanding of cultural dynamics and the importance of diverse representation in media. "Black Panther" impressed me with its powerful use of Afrofuturism to celebrate African heritage and critique colonialism, confirming the need for empowered black narratives in mainstream media. The @youngblackandaware account highlighted the importance of black youth activism and education, challenging systemic inequalities and emphasizing the empowerment of the black community. These media pieces collectively deepened my awareness of intersectionality and the complexities of privilege and power. They relate closely to course material, demonstrating how media can drive social change and enhance cultural understanding.
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Source: RED GIFs
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Source: Tumblr GIFs
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risheet · 2 months
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Blog #3 @youngblackandaware (Social Media Account)
In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, certain platforms stand out as beacons of empowerment, education, and community. One such platform is the Instagram handle @youngblackandaware. This digital space has become a vital resource for young Black individuals seeking inspiration, knowledge, and a sense of belonging which is in line with the teachings of our course on Multicultural America
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At its core, @youngblackandaware is dedicated to amplifying the voices and stories of Black individuals. Through a series of thoughtfully curated posts, the account showcases the diverse experiences and achievements of Black people across various fields. From entrepreneurs and artists to activists and scholars, @youngblackandaware celebrates the richness of Black culture and identity. By highlighting these stories, the platform fosters a sense of pride and unity within the community.
One of the defining aspects of @youngblackandaware is its dedication to education and raising awareness. This handle consistently shares valuable content on a variety of subjects, such as Black history, social justice issues, mental health, and economic empowerment. These posts are both enlightening and practical, offering followers the tools and knowledge they need to drive positive change in their communities and beyond. Whether it's an in-depth look at historical events or practical tips on financial literacy, @youngblackandaware serves as a prime source of empowering information.
Beyond education, @youngblackandaware is a strong advocate for social justice. The platform leverages its influence to promote activism and motivate followers to engage in important causes. Whether it's supporting Black-owned businesses, participating in community events, or advocating for policy changes, the handle offers resources and calls to action that encourage meaningful involvement. This emphasis on activism channels the energy and passion of the Black community toward making significant change.
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In a world where representation and visibility matter more than ever, @youngblackandaware stands out as a vital platform for the Black community. By following this handle, you’ll gain access to a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and support. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Black history, get involved in social justice causes, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, @youngblackandaware is a must-follow.
References:
@youngblackandaware (n.d) retrieved from Instagram
Singleton, P., III. (2015, June 20). Mindful while black. The On Being Project. https://onbeing.org/blog/mindful-while-black/
Photos: Sourced from the Instagram page of @youngblackandaware
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risheet · 2 months
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Blog Post #2: Black Panther (Movie)
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Marvel’s Black Panther, directed by Ryan Coogler and released in 2018, is more than just a superhero film. It stands as a cultural milestone, offering a profound commentary on diversity, and African American culture. The movie, with its groundbreaking portrayal of a African-American superhero and a predominantly African-American cast, has sparked conversations around these critical issues, making it a significant piece of cinema.
From the music to the writing, acting and directing. Black Panther brilliant in every aspect. While it may sound clichéd to say, the movie presents numerous important themes, three of which stood out to me were: the anti-colonialist and pro-Blackness beauty of Wakanda and the discussions around belonging and home between Africans and African Americans.
For me, there were no clear good guys or bad guys in this movie; I found myself identifying with both Killmonger and T’Challa. I empathized with Killmonger’s need to belong somewhere and his search for "home," a part of his identity stolen from him, fueling his lifelong quest. A poignant moment in the film is when T’Challa declares, “I am not the king of the world, I am the king of Wakanda,” simultaneously asserting his claim over his kingdom and denying Killmonger a place to belong.
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Beyond its exploration of racism and diversity, “Black Panther” is a vivid celebration of African and African American culture. The film’s aesthetic, from the costumes to the sets, draws heavily on various African cultures, creating a rich, immersive world that feels authentic and respectful. The soundtrack, curated by Kendrick Lamar, blends traditional African sounds with contemporary hip-hop, reflecting the fusion of cultures that defines the African-American experience. The portrayal of Wakanda as a technologically advanced yet culturally rich nation serves as a powerful counter-narrative to the often negative stereotypes associated with Africa in Western media.
The impact of “Black Panther” extends beyond the screen. It has inspired a new generation of filmmakers and actors, proving that diverse stories can achieve both critical and commercial success. The film has also sparked important conversations about representation in Hollywood, pushing the industry towards more inclusive practices. Its success at the box office and critical acclaim, including several Academy Award nominations and wins, underscore its significance as a cultural touchstone.
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In conclusion, I feel like Black Panther is a landmark film that transcends the superhero genre. Through its celebration of diversity, and rich depiction of African-American culture, it has made an indelible mark on both cinema and society. As we reflect on its themes and impact, Black Panther reminds us of the power of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it.
References:
Hassan, H. (2018, March 18). Black Panther: The movie about blackness that reflected back gold. ReFrame. https://www.thisisreframe.org/blog-posts/black-panther-the-movie-about-blackness-that-reflected-back-gold
Steinhouse, J. (2018, February 18). MCU review: Black Panther. Steinhouse of Mouse. https://steinhouseofmouse.com/f/mcu-review-black-panther
Sources of Images:
Used tumblr gifs and GIPHY. Creators of the GIFs have been cited under them.
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risheet · 2 months
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Blog Post #1: Fresh Off The Boat (Television)
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Fresh Off the Boat is an iconic American sitcom that ran from 2015 to 2020. Created by Nahnatchka Khan and inspired by Eddie Huang's memoir, the show stands out as one of the few mainstream TV programs to center around an Asian-American family. The story follows the Huang family as they move from Washington, D.C. to Orlando, Florida, in the mid-1990s. The series captures their efforts to blend into American culture while holding onto their Taiwanese roots, offering a humorous yet touching portrayal of the immigrant experience. At the heart of the show is the Huang family: Louis Huang, the optimistic patriarch who opens a Western-themed restaurant, and Jessica Huang, the pragmatic and determined mother focused on her children's success. Their kids, Eddie, Emery, and Evan, face the challenges of fitting in at school and finding their identities amidst the clash of two cultures.
"Fresh Off the Boat" explores racial and ethnic identities in a rich and nuanced way. It dives into the unique challenges Asian-Americans face, from confronting stereotypes to balancing assimilation with cultural preservation. The show sheds light on the subtle prejudices and cultural misunderstandings the Huangs experience, offering insight into the daily lives of many immigrant families. The series also delves into intersectionality, particularly through Eddie's character, who is deeply influenced by African-American hip-hop culture. His passion for rap music and admiration for Black artists add another dimension to discussions about cultural appropriation, identity, and solidarity among minority groups.
By bringing these themes to the forefront, "Fresh Off the Boat" sparks meaningful conversations about race, ethnicity, and cultural diversity. It invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and biases, fostering greater empathy and understanding. Through the Huang family's journey, the show challenges the often one-dimensional portrayal of Asian-Americans in media, highlighting the diversity within this community.
Moreover, the series broadens the dialogue to encompass the wider immigrant experience in America, touching on themes of belonging, identity, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Fresh Off the Boat is an important addition to television, encouraging a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and the complex experiences of Asian-American families.
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References:
Takaki, Ronald. A Different Mirror: A History of Multicultural America. First new ed. New York: Back Bay Books, 2008.
IKUO. (2018). Fresh off the boat by Eddie Huang. IKUO Reviews. Retrieved from https://ikuoreviews.blogspot.com/2018/10/fresh-off-boat-by-eddie-huang.html ​
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