Young men at Valiant Cross Academy in Montgomery, AL, led by Anthony Brock, Executive Director and ... [+]
When it comes to media representation, Black males often receive unfair treatment. With an overemphasis on discipline problems, a not-so-subtle insinuation of low intellectual ability, and age-old stereotypes that perpetuate any number of negative labels, Blacks, as represented in the media, can’t catch a break.
Even though these representations are in sharp contrast to the outstanding accomplishments and tenacity that characterize the academic paths of many Black men, the perception that Black men in the educational setting display a lower standard of competence persist with media narratives often resting on theories that cast doubt on their intellectual abilities.
Bias, more than actual data, drives these distorted perspectives and streams of negative labels not only to ignore fairness, but to also undermine youthful aspirations by creating an inaccurate – to the point of dishonest – reality that feeds a deflating, destructive self-fulfilling narrative for many young Blacks.
In “Between The World and Me” Ta-Nehisi Coates writes of the pervasive prejudice that portrays Black people as inferior, supports a toxic ideology that breeds mistrust and anxiety and adds to the already challenging road of young Blacks pursuing an education.
Ta-Nehisi Coates, National Correspondent for The Atlantic and author of "Between the World and Me," ... [+]
One such area of unfair attention is the unrelenting focus on “behavior problems” and “discipline.”
These presentations typically omit the context and background of those issues, and they ignore larger societal structures that leave individuals and groups at a disadvantage. Rather than merely listing shortcomings, the media should broaden their focus to highlight the obstacles individuals face — and, more importantly, overcome – and acknowledge (and applaud) their success.
These problems are made worse by the underrepresentation of Black leaders in education – at all levels – and the fact that those who do exist are often overlooked. Young aspirants gain confidence, and hope, from seeing leaders who resemble them. Without role models, it’s difficult for young people to see what options the future might hold for them. Media outlets need to highlight those school administrators, teachers and students who are breaking boundaries and serving as role models for the community.
Rebutting negative labels with authentic, uplifting narratives is vitally important and long overdue. The stories must change, with a focus on successes that emphasize Blacks’ accomplishments, aspirations, and contributions to higher education. Keith Brooks, the creator of The National Fellowship for Black and Latino Male Educators, leads initiatives to place more members of these communities in leadership positions in education, highlighting the potential and ability that frequently go unrecognized in these areas.
Keith Brooks leads an accelerator session presentation during the 2023 Yass Prize.
Media depictions have a profound impact on the psyches of young Black males. They must read tales that capture a reality of accomplishment that is far broader than that found in sports or entertainment. Intellectual giants like Booker T. Washington Jr, A.G. Gaston, Benjamin Elijah Mays, and George Washington Carver, or others like them, should also be used to shape young people’s dreams.
Engagement is crucial and each of us can act as a counterbalance to the existing media environment by actively seeking out, communicating, and publicizing the positive stories that are sadly underreported. Local journalism, and platforms that value diverse and uplifting content and offer Black voices a platform for sharing their stories of success and experience should all be supported.
Media outlets are not the only ones responsible; content producers and consumers also need to speak up for and support this change. Our collective responsibility is to ensure that every young Black child may identify a wide range of role models from all spheres of society, allowing their goals to be as limitless as their immense potential. By changing the narrative, we pave the way for a time when Black male contributors to the tale of academic success are visible, and their roles as academics, leaders, and innovators are not the exception but the expectation.
