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Latinos Underrepresented on TV, Study Finds
28 Jan
Summary
- Latino characters appear in only 6% of broadcast TV roles.
- 25% of Latino characters are depicted as criminals on screen.
- Representation often lacks cultural specificity, favoring Mexican heritage.
A recent study by the USC Norman Lear Center reveals a significant disparity in Latino representation on broadcast television. Despite comprising one-fifth of the American population, Latino characters account for a mere 6% of on-screen roles. This underrepresentation is termed "symbolic annihilation," impacting public perception and reinforcing social inequities.
The "Between Stereotypes & Specificity" study analyzed top U.S. shows, finding that 70% featured four or fewer Latino characters, and half had only one. When Latino characters were included, their representation often lacked cultural nuance, with Mexican heritage being the most common, and 91% were in race-agnostic roles. This contrasts sharply with how individuals express their identities in real life.
Furthermore, the study identified concerning patterns in the quality of representation. Approximately 25% of Latino characters were depicted as criminals, with another 26% participating in criminal acts on screen. This narrative reinforces harmful stereotypes, as only seven out of 69 characters were shown as wealthy, and four of those acquired their fortunes through illicit means.
