Linguistic Reform of Media Portrayals: Moving Towards Positive African American Identity Affirmation

The subjects of prejudice, privilege, and racial reconciliation remain important yet highly controversial topics of political and social conversations. These discussion areas are still relevant partly due to stereotypes of African Americans. Stereotypes persist as a threat to achievement of a more harmonious social structure in 21st century America. Many scholars agree that one of the more pervasive hindrances to authentic racial relations is stereotyping (Leonard & Locke, 1993, p. 332). Though race relations have improved within the past century, stereotypes and beliefs in them have generally remained unchanged (Leonard & Locke, 1993, p. 332)