Latinx Representation in Media, Films, and Pop Culture - EMR 149

Latinos have made significant contributions to film and television productions, and now they are avidly creating content for digital platforms. Furthermore, they are important media consumers in U.S. society despite having a limited presence in the industry: in 2019 Latinos/as/es accounted only for 4,6 % of the acting roles in Hollywood while being 23% of the total movie theater audience in the United States. Public debates on diversity have acknowledged that media representation matters due its power on shaping ideas; these media representations can either reinforce or demystify racial and cultural stereotypes.

For this interdisciplinary introductory level course we will examine, from a critical perspective, the production of representations on Latinx cultures in media, film and pop culture. Students will be able to get a general sense of the state of the Latino media landscape in the U.S. and understand the contexts in which these industries were developed, and how different Latinx cultural agents are trying to close the representation gap by generating support and advocacy networks. Students will also be able to assess strengths, weaknesses and future challenges for Latinx media representation.

Readings, cultural products and discussions for this class will include literature, music, media (films, TV shows and digital content), and bibliography on ethnicity, creative economy, cultural policy, bilingualism. This is a broad-based course open and accessible to all students.