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1. Mixed Media Watch - tracking media representations of mixed people on 02 Aug 2006 at 10:35 pm

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1. Alysha wrote:

   Concerning racial satire – along with Cho’s caricature of her mother, which has bothered me, I would also include a sketch on MadTV (not sure if it’s still part of the show) of some kind of “Asian woman” who is in fact played by a white woman. I’ve seen this sketch briefly on the show a few times, and have been deeply disturbed by it, and by how members of my family could laugh at it. I also think it’s really interesting to question and study WHY people laugh – a lot of times laughter comes out of discomfort, out of not really knowing how to deal with what they’re seeing. What I would ask, concerning comedians who do kind of “make fun” of themselves, how empowering that is for the comedian, and who your audience is — and what the line is between audience reaction and personal empowerment. I would also ask if the reaction you’re getting is the audience getting used to static stereotypes or actually joining with you in your complex struggles against racism (allowing stereotypes to “move” or become problematized), and which is more effective.

   Posted 27 Apr 2006 at 2:12 pm ¶

2. deb wrote:

   I just discovered Adult Swim’s Minoriteam and I couldn’t help but think about Carmen’s rant.

   Where do I start? They’re a multiethnic group of superheroes whose powers are based on racial stereotypes. Their arch enemy is The White Shadow.

   I’ve only watched it once, but I’ll have to watch it again to let it sink in. Seems that some people think it takes an anti-racist approach while others think it’s anti-white. Anyway, the creators do seem to be aware of how the characters are perceived. For example, there’s a character called Racist Frankenstein of whom one of the creators, Adam De La Peña, says: “He’s a monster! He’s an idiot!” And his catch phrase is, ‘Me hit blacks with hands,’ which is one of the most horrible catch phrases. And I liked it too, because out of context, it sounds insane. So if people haven’t watched the show, which the vast majority of America hasn’t… but you watched it, and if you’re walking down the street saying Racist Frankenstein’s catch phrases, you’re gonna be in trouble.”

   I think this is Carmen’s concern with this kind of satire.

   If you’re interested the interview is here: http://filmforce.ign.com/articles/701/701593p1.html

   Posted 28 Apr 2006 at 10:26 am ¶

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