On Saturday, Disney released the names of the three leading actors in its upcoming remake of the classic "Aladdin." Naomi Scott known for her role as Kimberly in "The Power Rangers" (2017) has been cast for the part of Jasmine. This choice has faced blackish among critics who claim that the choice of an actress with "Indian descent" suggests that Middle Eastern and Indian women are the same. This controversy comes in the wake of frustration over Disney's reported inability to cast People Of Color in the film. Scott is joined by Will Smith in the role of Genie and newcomer Mena Massoud as Aladdin.
Without much more known than a few names and directors, the live-action adaptation already has the world's attention. In the era of change and progress, many issues and divisions are being discussed on a much broader scale than previously seen. One of the greatest issues being fought for is Equal Representation for women and minorities on television.
Since the notorious 2015 Oscars that were reportedly "the whitest Oscars since 1998" the importance of equal representation in the media has increased dramatically. Before 2015, research has shown that the ratio between people of color and their white counterparts is disturbing. One study showed that "only 12.4 percent of speaking characters from the 2007-2012 top 500 grossing films were portrayed by black actors.
In fact, 40 percent of the top 100 grossing films from 2012 showed black characters as less than 5 percent of the speaking cast.". This inequality may have been acceptable before but not any longer. A new generation has arrived and they are prepared to fight every social or political problem they find.
Why is representation so important?
Every person should have someone in the media who represent them, whether it be ethnicity, gender, sexuality or physical/mental ability. If a child is unable to see someone like them in the media, government or professional world, they will have a much harder time envisioning such a path for themselves.
Also important are the conversations sparked by the media in terms of sexuality or gender identity. Many people don't know how to accept themselves or talk to others about issues like gender and sexuality but seeing it on TV could be a start.
Representation is important to everyone and should be emphasized in the media. Our differences are something to be admired and understood rather than avoided and brushed aside. In order to encourage more girls and children of color to pursue STEM or media careers, there need to be examples in the world of how to get there.
