Documentary Pitch

Topic 1: Respectability Politics “Maybe if I look like this I’ll be more tolerable.” “If I dress this way (professionally) or wear my hair straight, it’ll make me a less likely target of racism.” Or, “people who act ‘ghetto’ should be treated poorly. They are presenting themselves in an undesirable light. I don’t like them either, I don’t blame white people.” Respectability politics can refer to the idea that making oneself more like what society deems culturally appropriate, or shying away from being noticeably “black” in order to fit a stereotypically description of what is right or good or acceptable. My documentary will dive deep into the depths of racism in America: where it came from and why it still exists and also the possible roots of respectability politics and popular examples. It will also spotlight those who choose to paint themselves in a different light and fashion their views, demeanor, and persona around being more respectable in the eyes of those of a more dominant culture i.e. white Americans. I will also give the opposing view a platform to speak on why they do not buy into respectability politics and chose to stick to their roots. A possible subject would be Dr. Muwwakkil, Race-Religion and Personality professor who regularly dons ethnic clothing and head wraps and up until recently wore her hair in dreadlocks.