Diversity in 2022: A New Ripple Effect

 Diversity has been on a constant incline in media and in the entertainment industry. But why is it important for diversity to be shown? 

Teenagers and young adults answer this question simply: it educates more people about their cultures. Without representation of various races, sexualities, or genders, many people would not be educated on the issues these groups face or their differences when facing the world. 

While representation stands as a strong pillar, misrepresentation is a slippery slope. For example, when LGBTQ+ people demanded change and representation in the 70s and 80s, they received it, but in an ugly and demeaning way. Sitcoms used gay, lesbian and trans people as jokes or a way to poke fun at someone outside of the normal. These jokes perpetuated more misrepresentation and disrespect and only in recent years have LGBTQ+ issues actually been taken seriously in film and media. 

Other stereotypes about minorities have also perpetuated harm. The stereotype that black people are criminals or in gangs only harms an audience because if that is what they see, that is what they are going to perceive all black people as. 

Now, in 2022, the same ripple effect that was used to maintain these stereotypes is being flipped on its head to hopefully break down the walls of the boxes minorities have been put in by the majority.