Applying Critical Race Theory to Media Literacy Interventions Aimed at Recognizing Systemic Racism

Abstract

This chapter conducts a scoping review of past media literacy interventions designed to reduce racial stereotypes, examines the tenets of critical race theory (CRT) and their application to such interventions, and proposes critical race media literacy (CRML) interventions to challenge mainstream stereotypical representations of non-White groups in the media as well as to empower diverse audiences to create their own media texts. The review found that CRT was applied less frequently than other frameworks, such as critical media literacy, in past interventions. Yet the five tenets of CRT (counter-storytelling, the permanence of racism, Whiteness as property, interest conversion, and the critique of liberalism) could inform CRML with a strong focus on social justice. Proposed CRML interventions encompass activities, ranging from analysis (e.g., uncovering alternative narratives not covered in mainstream media), to deconstruction (e.g., reflecting on the role of stereotypical or counter-stereotypical representations in sustaining systemic racism), to media production (e.g., writing letters to the editor to expose the myth of meritocracy and colorblindness). Discussion questions, activities, and evaluation measures are suggested. CRML interventions give diverse audiences a toolbox to advocate for the representation of their lived experiences not portrayed in mainstream media while encouraging social transformation and activism.