The terms “representation” and “token” are frequently discussed in the media, blurring the line between inclusivity and tokenism. Since the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, there has been an increased push for equal representation, especially in film, where true diversity remains limited. Historically, Black actors, and particularly Black actresses, struggled to be cast in significant roles. When they were finally included in the mid-1900s, their roles often reflected stereotypes, portraying them as maids or subordinates. While the presence of Black women in film and television has grown, their portrayals have not substantially evolved, frequently reinforcing outdated perceptions.

Though Black women’s visibility in film has increased, these portrayals often lack depth. For example, in 10 Things I Hate About You (1999), Gabrielle Union’s character Chastity is the “token Black friend,” serving only to support the white lead, Bianca, without developing her character. Similar stereotypes appear in shows like The Big Bang Theory (Raj) and That ’70s Show (Fez), where ethnic characters are often reduced to stereotypes based on accents or behaviors—these roles, while seemingly inclusive, often perpetuate negative portrayals of minority groups.

However, not all films with ethnic characters fall into this trope. True representation involves giving minority characters meaningful roles and development, as seen in films like Black Panther and shows like Star Wars. These examples push for equality and empowerment, offering a more authentic portrayal of diversity in media. Real inclusivity goes beyond tokenism, providing characters that are as complex and relevant as their white counterparts. True representation does not put ethnic characters on the sidelines but incorporates them into an integral factor in the film’s plot and overall message.

Credit: 

• Wilks, Lauren Elizabeth. Teens of color on TV: charting shifts in sensibility and approaches to portrayals of Black characters in American serialized teen dramas. Diss. 2019.
• Sey, Isatou K. “Black Women in Film: The Film Stereotypes, Cliches, and Tropes that Negatively Influence Perceptions of Black Women.” (2023).
• “Token Ethnic Friends: How Pop Culture Taught Me I Was Support, Not the Lead | Zoya Patel.” The Guardian, Guardian News and Media, 22 May 2019, 
• Word, The Mary. “The Fine Line between Representation and Tokenism in Film.” 1 June 2022

By Jimena Saavedra