Use The Documentaries, Online Articles, Readings To Answer

Use The Documentaries Online Articles Readings To Answer The Followi

Use The Documentaries Online Articles Readings To Answer The Followi

Use the documentaries, online articles, readings to answer the following questions. You must use at least five separate sources from the course across your three answers. Be sure to cite the sources with intext citations properly and include a bibliography. You may use articles, documentaries, or texts from any point in the course. Clearly number each section of your answer.

Considering the various topics that we touched upon, what was the most important theme of the course? Justify your answer using specific examples from the texts. Considering the above theme, describe a change in attitude you’ve had as a result of the course. This could be something dramatic or subtle, but either way, cite the specific passages of text, film and/or class discussion that altered your way of thinking. Referring back to the theme identified in question 1, how will you promote greater equality in the future on this issue? As in the first two questions, be sure to connect this to ideas and suggestions in the texts.

Paper For Above instruction

The most important theme of the course, as reflected through the curated selection of documentaries, articles, and readings, revolves around social justice and the quest for equality. This overarching theme emerged consistently across various topics such as racial inequality, gender disparities, economic injustice, and environmental sustainability. The course illuminated how systemic structures perpetuate inequality and the importance of activism and policy change in fostering social justice.

One compelling example highlighting this theme is the documentary "13th" directed by Ava DuVernay. The film scrutinizes the U.S. prison system and its roots in racial inequality, illustrating how incarceration rates disproportionately affect African Americans (DuVernay, 2016). The analysis of the 13th Amendment exposes the persistence of racial discrimination under the guise of legal reforms. This example underscores the systemic barriers faced by marginalized communities and emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive reform to attain true equality.

Another crucial source is Michelle Alexander’s book "The New Jim Crow," which corroborates the themes explored in "13th" by detailing the historical continuity of racial oppression through mass incarceration (Alexander, 2010). Her work broadened my understanding of how policies stemming from racist stereotypes continue to marginalize communities, reinforcing the importance of grassroots activism alongside legislative change.

Additionally, the documentary "Miss Representation" highlights gender disparities and media portrayals that perpetuate stereotypes about women’s roles and capabilities (Heldman, 2011). This helped me realize how cultural narratives shape societal attitudes toward gender, reinforcing systemic inequities. The film prompted me to reevaluate the media’s role in constructing social norms and the importance of diverse representation.

In personal reflection, my attitude shifted toward recognizing the depth of entrenched systemic inequalities. Initially, I believed individual efforts could suffice to promote change; however, exposure to these texts clarified that structural reform and collective action are vital. For example, during a class discussion on the influence of corporate interests in politics, I realized how economic power inequalities sustain social disparities (Klein, 2014). This recognition motivated me to view activism as a collective endeavor that requires both individual awareness and institutional pressure.

To promote greater equality on these issues, I plan to engage in advocacy through education and community organizing. Drawing from Audre Lorde’s assertion that “the master’s tools will never dismantle the master’s house” (Lorde, 1984), I acknowledge the importance of challenging existing power structures rather than working within them. Supporting policy initiatives inspired by the texts, such as criminal justice reform and equal representation, will be crucial. Moreover, I intend to participate in and support grassroots movements that aim to amplify marginalized voices, exemplified by the Black Lives Matter movement and campaigns for gender equality.

In conclusion, the course’s core focus on social justice has profoundly influenced my understanding of systemic inequality and the importance of collective action. By critically engaging with the materials, I am better equipped to advocate for structural change and promote a more equitable society. This knowledge motivates me to remain actively involved in advocacy efforts, ensuring that the lessons from these powerful texts and documentaries translate into sustained social impact.

References

  • Alexander, M. (2010). The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. The New Press.
  • DuVernay, A. (Director). (2016). 13th. Netflix.
  • Heldman, C. (Producer). (2011). Miss Representation. Girls’ Club Entertainment.
  • Klein, N. (2014). This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. the Climate. Simon & Schuster.
  • Lorde, A. (1984). “The Master’s Tools Will Never Dismantle the Master’s House.” In Sister Outsider. crossing