On the very first day of class, you had us describe the definition of race, gender and ethnicity. There was silence in the classroom for a moment. Three words so simple that we’ve all heard a million times in our lives. Yet when you get down to the “big picture” the three words are actually very difficult to discuss, which is what we witnessed on the first day. Everyone had a different yet still similar view of the multiple definitions being tossed around. Meaning every person in our class seemed to limit our thinking by putting not only us in a box but also even our words.
Today I think of the term race as many things. I think of not just the obvious, skin color but now I can go beyond that and reflect on what we learned earlier in the course. Race becomes “common sense,” a way of comprehending, explaining and acting in the world. I used to think gender is more black and white. In my eyes there only used to be men and women. However in order to be socially correct today, the word, “gender” has expanded. There are now homosexuals who whish they were another sex as well as transsexuals who’ve managed to change their gender along the way. After this class I now think that gender is what you wish to be described and addressed as; For example, he or she. Society can’t rely on the untrained eye and assume gender any longer. As far as ethnicity goes, I believe what I read in the Haney Lopez article. It stated, “The theory of ethnicity is based on culture and descent.” This too can tie back in to how the phrase, “what you see is what you get” is very untrue. So many people believe in this phrase which is why thousands every day get mistaken for their heritage and identity just because of the texture of their hair, skin color, etc. Ethnicity goes further than the surface of what the eye can assume or see, it’s more of what you can’t see; it is the history down to your core roots.
I have to admit when I first saw on the syllabus that we would have to be completing “blogs,” I thought to myself, “Oh no!” I felt this way mainly because I have never visited nor attempted to write a blog in my life. Now I’m grateful for the assignments. As a media professional, I’m sure this isn’t my last blog that I’ll have to address. I find that blogging is another great tool and window to communicate through back and forth. Of course I had my fair share of confusion with blogging (every week it seems like) but I think I’ve finally figured it out and now know the dos and don’ts. Though the blogging experience was frustrating and tough at times, overall it was a great new experience. I’m glad I can now say to future employees that I’m qualified and experienced in the blogging department!
The information that I’ve learned will help me immensely as a media professional. I already feel like I have an edge/ upper hand. Now that I’ve taken this class I’m not only well-rounded but I have the ability to see things from a different prospective as well as feel comfortable talking about every day social issues that seem awkward and difficult to discuss when addressed by most. In fact I think in many cases the basic race, gender and media issues won’t be addressed at all for lack of ability, confidence and fear the topic will result in confrontation. After completing this class, I however feel comfortable directing any socially awkward area head-on. I’m happy to say that my toolbox is much fuller then ever before!
