Tilted Images: Media Coverage and the Use of Critical Race Theory to Examine Social Equity Disparities for Blacks and Other People of Color

Abstract

ABSTRACTIn the second decade of the 21st century societal advancements continue to fall short in closing the gap in social policies for Blacks and other people of color. From health to housing and education, people of color and low-income groups continue to struggle at a greater rate to receive services and support. Media coverage often reflects these disparities, particularly in urban communities. This analysis uses Critical Race Theory (CRT) as a theoretical tool to analyze the 2016 report Racism’s Toll: Report on Illinois Poverty to illustrate the challenges faced in addressing social issues and how they are covered in the media. CRT provides a prism through which to examine coverage of health, housing, and education disparities and provides a context for understanding and seeking ways to change disparities in social policies and programs.