Diversity has been being pushed so much in all realms of our lives from the workplace to commercials and so much more. This push comes from people of color (POC) who are tired of being left behind, lack representation and are not included in conversations. The question is, is there such a thing as too much diversity?
This is not as simple as it may seem because there are many underlying circumstances that shape anyone’s answer. When I first considered this question I chuckled because of course there is no such thing as too much, there can’t be. But do I think this was as a queer Black woman? Is my unconscious bias setting in? After all, we all have it.
From a media standpoint, visuals help form our perceptions of what we see happening around us. As a fan of television, it has been quite interesting witnessing the shift in media and seeing how this changes the way that we view diversity. I will say while it is nice to see characters that are not cookie-cutter like we have in the past, it has been an unusual experience living through a time where diversity is now a necessity. Let me explain further. You’ve been keeping up with your favorite television show for five seasons, and suddenly a character who never showed interest in men comes out as gay or lesbian. You are caught off guard, pleasantly surprised but still confused. Now, this character’s entire storyline revolves around their gay identity and their struggle as a member of the LGBTQ community. Now let’s say the show introduces a black character, again you’re pleasantly surprised, that is until you notice this character’s entire story arc is based on their black identity. It is important to see these characters, but not in the continuous cycle of stereotypes and hardship.
These instances are not uncommon because this is what happens in television now, and it is an attempt to appear more diverse, but at what cost. When characters are reduced to their identity as a black person or a gay person, or a Muslim or Jew, it diminishes their autonomy as a person. They have now become a token for the show and ticked a diversity box. This is when too much diversity becomes to exist, not because of the character’s existence but because of what they are meant to represent. This does not only apply to television but to our everyday lives. We see it happen in the workplace and often times we may not be able to make the connection.
Therefore, diversity is best received when done with the right intentions. When diversity is pushed only to fix a companies image or reach a quota, it can feel forced and inauthentic. While one might think that POC will benefit no matter the circumstances, representation is only worthy of praise when done right.
Your Inclusive Marketing Company
Maybe you’re not in media, but you know your company needs help with their DEI and inclusive marketing initiatives. We would love to collaborate with you. Take a moment to schedule a 15-minute discovery call, reach out via email at ngome@line25consulting.com, or call (713)298-5851.
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