My blackness “can’t get out”

While experimenting with these two works of art, it’s noticeable that there is more in common than we might think at first glance. It is much more than 2 black men talking about racism. Moreover, I think Canada’s and the United States’ relationship with racism is more similar than we might think. Therefore, this text is to discuss about the experiences described by both Cole and Peel and how they conveyed the relationship Black men have with their respective country. 

First of all, the title for Cole’s book “The Skin We’re In” is already powerful enough. In 5 words, it conveys how hard it is for Black people; in this case, black men, to live in North America with this skin color and what it means to be Black in this 21^st century society. This impactful title also correlates to Chris Washington who was a victim of police brutality. It’s a known fact, as a person of color, you’ll get more easily mistreated by the police than others. Just like the Black characters in the award-wining film “Get Out”. Several Afro-Americans got kidnapped over a certain period of time but none were found. It is exemplified when Chris’s best friend came to the police station to talk about Chris’s missing. Even if he had information about Andre Logan King who was also missing several months prior, they still didn’t take him seriously and laughed at him, so he had to take care of this complex situation by himself. If it had been a white person missing, the whole police station would have been on the case until they found them. They wouldn’t have left the case unresolved. This shows how black people are left to themselves.

Second of all, in the film “Get Out”, there is a lot of stereotypes about black men which are said by Rose’s family. Such as, when Rose is presenting Chris to her family in the living room, a middle age lady asks Rose about her sex life, insinuating that it must be good in bed because as a black man, her boyfriend must have a big sex, which makes them uncomfortable. Also, the grandpa wanted to have a black man’s body to be able to run faster since it is also a stereotype that black people are faster than other races. He thought that by taking this man’s body, it would make him win the race he lost before, which is why we see him running in the garden, at night. Even thought, white people occupied their bodies, the three kidnapped black people’s consciousness still remained in the “Sunken Place” because what makes them themselves; their blackness cannot be erased. When Chris took a photo of Andre, he retook the reign over his body for a brief moment and told Chris to “get out!” even though they didn’t know each other; he wanted to save him from becoming like him. This shows his resistance towards his oppressors.

Thirdly, both works underscore the pervasive impact of systemic racism on individuals’ lives. While Chris faces hostility in the form of the Armitage family’s sinister machinations, Cole and his friends contend with subtler yet no less damaging forms of discrimination in the Toronto community. The histories of racism in Canada and the US, though distinct, are interconnected, revealing a legacy of oppression that persists to this day.

Fourthly, the portrayal of masculinity in “Fight Club” in relation to Desmond Cole’s works highlights contrasting perspectives on male identity. While “Fight Club” depicts masculinity through violent and self-destructive means, Cole’s narratives emphasize vulnerability, community, and resilience as integral aspects of Black male experiences. By challenging traditional notions of masculinity and promoting dialogue around intersectional identities, Cole’s work contributes to a broader reevaluation of gender norms and societal expectations.

”Eugene Fitzherbert” not ”Flynn Rider”

Eugene Fitzherbert, commonly known as Flynn Rider, from Disney’s “Tangled,” offers a nuanced portrayal of masculinity in popular culture that challenges traditional norms while also highlighting the presence of stereotypes and their potential impact on society.

Flynn Rider embodies a modern interpretation of masculinity, one that combines strength with vulnerability, confidence with humility, and independence with emotional intelligence. Initially presented as a suave and charming thief, Flynn’s journey throughout the film involves not only physical adventures but also emotional growth. He learns to confront his past mistakes, open up about his vulnerabilities, and ultimately prioritize the well-being of others over his own desires. This evolution reflects a departure from the stoic and emotionally closed-off male archetypes often depicted in traditional portrayals of masculinity.

Furthermore, Flynn’s relationship with Rapunzel showcases a partnership based on mutual respect, support, and equality. He respects Rapunzel’s agency and autonomy, never seeking to control or dominate her. This portrayal challenges the outdated notion of masculinity as inherently dominant and reinforces the importance of consent and communication in relationships.

However, despite these progressive elements, Flynn Rider also exemplifies certain stereotypes prevalent in popular culture. His initial characterization as a “bad boy” with a roguish charm and penchant for breaking the law aligns with the trope of the rebellious, anti-heroic male figure. While his transformation throughout the film subverts this stereotype to some extent.

Moreover, Flynn’s physical appearance conforms to conventional standards of attractiveness, with his chiseled features and rugged demeanor. As a matter of fact, several women had to describe their ideal man physically and they ended up with the character we know today which may conform men to be like him becuase of women’s opinions.

The impact of Flynn Rider’s portrayal in popular culture extends beyond entertainment media and can influence societal norms and individuals’ self-perception. His complex characterization challenges traditional gender roles and promotes inclusivity by showcasing a range of masculine traits beyond mere strength and dominance. This can empower individuals, especially young boys, to embrace their emotions and vulnerabilities without fear of being perceived as weak.

In conclusion, Eugene Fitzherbert, as portrayed in “Tangled,” offers a multifaceted representation of masculinity in popular culture. He challenges traditional norms and promotes inclusivity through his character development and relationships, he is change by Rapunzel’s and doesn’t want to hide is true self anymore. That is why for me, they are the ideal couple and Eugene is the best Disney prince to date.

Rethinking masculinity: Unveiling societal fractures

In an era marked by social upheavals and cultural transformations, documentaries serve as a mirror reflecting the complexities of our society. “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel” delve into two distinct yet interconnected contemporary themes: racial tensions and the rise of involuntary celibates (Incels). By drawing Michael Kimmel’s insights on masculinity and Will James’s exploration of male identity in digital spaces, this analysis will demonstrate how toxic masculinity manifests differently in the context depicted in those documentaries, ultimately contributing to broader discussions on gender, power and social dynamics.

Michael Kimmel’s concept that homophobia is a central organizing principle of manhood and is more than the fear of gay men is exemplified in the documentary “Charlottesville: Race and Terror”. The white supremacist ideology perpetuated by the people featured in the video represents an extreme manifestation of hegemonic masculinity in which power, dominance and control are central beliefs. They feel superior to the LGBTQ2+ community as if they are “normal” compare to them, because they considered themselves as straight masculine males but Kimmel’s analysis helps us understand how this toxic form of masculinity not only fuel racial violence but also serves as a mechanism for maintaining societal hierarchies based on gender and race.

Will James’ exploration of male identity in digital spaces offers valuable insights into the world of involuntary celibates, as depicted in the documentary “Inside Incel.” People are on Internet more than ever before and men are not exempted of that. Generally, this type of men doesn’t have a lot of social interactions and isolate themselves so they go online to release their anger on strangers, notably women who seem out of reach to them. It also highlights how online communities provide a platform for men to express their frustrations and grievances, often amplifying toxic beliefs and reinforcing harmful stereotypes about masculinity. Through this perspective, we can analyze ourselves how the anonymity and accessibility of digital platform facilitate the proliferation of toxic masculinity, contributing to the radicalization of individuals who feel marginalized.

In conclusion, the documentaries, “Charlottesville: Race and Terror” and “Inside Incel” offer thought-provoking narratives that highlights the multifaceted nature of toxic masculinity in today’s society. By applying the insights of Michael Kimmel and Will James, we gain a deeper understanding of how masculinity works in different social and cultural contexts and how digital spaces influence the construction of male identity. These analyses underscore the urgent need for addressing toxic masculinity as a societal issue, as its consequences resound through various aspects of our lives, from racial tension to online radicalization. Only through continued efforts to challenge gender norms can we hope to foster healthier, more inclusive environment for all individuals.

Blog 1 : Expressions of masculinity

In both the short film “Invincible” and Carlos Andres Gomez’s text masculinity is explored through internal struggles and external expressions. Invincible depicts a young boy navigating societal pressures to conform to traditional masculine ideals, such as strength, while grappling with his own vulnerability and emotions. Similarly, Gomez’s text highlights into the complexities of masculinity, while focusing on the internal conflicts faced by men who feels compelled to embody a certain image of dominance.

Internally, the characters in both works wrestle with conflicting emotions and expectations placed upon them by the society. They grapple with notions of power, vulnerability and identity, struggling to reconcile with their truth selves because of societal norms. This internal conflict is manifested as they navigate their relationships with others, confront challenges

The people and institutions, surrounding the characters play a significant role in shaping and responding to their expression of masculinity. Family dynamics and peer pressure all influence how the characters perceive masculinity. Schools, workplaces and the media reinforce gender roles, impacting how the characters are treated by others.

As the characters react to the events around them, they are met with both support from the people around them. Some may find acceptance and validation by conforming to the traditional masculine ideals, while others may face criticism or rejection for deviating from these norms. Ultimately both of these works shed light on the complex interplay between experiences of masculinity and pressures to conform. Highlighting the need for more nuanced and understanding of gender identities.