Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Discourse Analysis
The current state of discourse about Appalachia is a tricky one. While, nationwide, we seem to have no shortage of negative stereotypes and opinions of Appalachian ways, locally, I have noticed a strong movement to accept and embrace the culture. Now, it could just be because we are in Appalachia that this movement is occurring, but I still think it is a step in the right direction. If we at Ohio University, an institute of higher education, can understand and accept Appalachia for the good, then the rest of the world might start to follow. Obviously, there are no guarantees, but it is a hopeful thought. If we can get media support, we'll have a better shot at changing what is. Protests of negative Appalachian imagery in movies, music, and such could send a message of appropriate, good ol' fashion Appalachian rebellion. Some things we can do to facilitate the process are to avoid the negative stereotypes, see the positive side of what we may think is "abnormal", and spread awareness of what is right in Appalachia. It is not a hopeless dream to change the discourse as we know it now; we just need to be the change we want to see and take pride in being related in some way or another to Appalachia.
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I completely agree with these statements. People are becoming more accepting of Appalachian values and beliefs. Media support would be a huge improvement for Appalachia as well. I also believe the media support has already started in some aspects, with the Hunger Games coming out.
ReplyDeleteI think that you are right and people are starting to become more accepting of Appalachians. While we may be influenced by our location, most of us will not live here after college and our view on Appalachia will come with us. This can also help to transform the stereotypes and spread awareness. Also as Tyler mentioned the Hunger Games has already sparked some sort of media support.
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