Stereotyping is still a part of American society, and it can be observed through small details in media and everyday life. The P&G advertisement “The Look” illustrates this by accentuating a specific non-verbal signal that conveys an opinion about the main character (Ads of Brands, 2019). The person in the video is not shown to experience racism in the way society sees it. He is not denied access to public spaces or getting services. Instead, the people surrounding him show concern via a single look that conveys disrespect, fear, and avoidance. Therefore, the commercial focuses on microaggressions and other signs of latent racism still relevant to our society.
Microaggressions may be expressed through different methods in various circumstances. This is how a colleague may address a person of color, using derogatory terms that can be offensive. Another example that I personally observed is the common usage of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in a manner that promotes cultural appropriation.
As the ad illustrates, the issue cannot be addressed every time someone experiences this, as it may be perceived as rude, time-consuming, and out of place (Ads of Brands, 2019). However, this problem should be addressed systematically, as the origin of “The Look” lies in public consciousness, which can be changed through education and activism. Thus, American society should be more open to discussion of bias to address the topics that limit progress.
In conclusion, systemic racism is not as evident as it used to be. While people who hold counter-progressive views rarely express their opinions publicly, they may still convey them through non-verbal communication or microaggressions. These issues should be publicly acknowledged and addressed to prevent the spread of stereotyping and conflict. Only by changing the societal perception of diversity can the community work together toward a brighter future, free from prejudice.
Reference
Ads of Brands. (2019). P&G: The Look. Youtube.