Representations in the media

Representations in the media

        Within my project I would like to address the struggle of immigration in present-day United States. Immigration has become a highly discussed topic, generating lots of controversial attention. As an immigrant to this country, I understand these struggles and would like to portray them in my project. Hundreds of thousands of immigrants the United  go through these struggles yet I feel like they do not get accurate representation. For this reason, I would like to represent this group.

           In films centered around the drug trade, like 'Breaking Bad', Latino immigrants are often represented negatively. Although some cases may be accurately represented, the popularity generated by films or shows like Breaking Bad is immense. This popularity gives a huge population of people a general negative view on immigrants within the United States. Latino characters like Gustavo Fring and Tuco Salamanca are one of the few Latino characters in the show and are also drug kingpins attaining immense illegal wealth. Every time Mexico is mentioned in the show, it is for the purpose of the drug trade. This is a reoccurring theme seen in many media examples. This representation can be based on some truth, but is not true at all for the general Latino population. Most Latinos are ordinary, peaceful people with no affiliation to crime. Each country has it's own culture which are independent from drug trade or use. These representations make people believe that many or most Latino immigrants are also affiliated to drug trade, which is not true at all. In my project I will challenge these representations of Latino immigrants with more positive ones.

         Although many media representations of Latino immigrants are negative, there are still some representations that are positive.  In the film 'McFarland, USA', immigrant families are more accurately represented. The film takes place in a largely Mexican US high school. The film shows the guys on the track team as hard working, dedicated, independent young men with aspiration. Although they may have some fallout with coaches and family, they are represented as normal citizens with interest in ordinary activities. This is an aspect many media representations of Latinos are lacking. Instead of focusing on drug-culture of Latin America, this film focused on dedication and hard-work done by immigrants. As a Latino immigrant, I personally feel this dedication and drive everyday and see it in other people like me. I will retain this characteristic in my project and make it one of the predominant characteristics.