Racism and How to Deal With it in Comics

Comics are not exempt from racism, nor has it been absent from it's pages.  We all understand what it is: the belief that all members of each race possess characteristics or abilities specific to that race, especially so as to distinguish it as inferior or superior to another race or races. And with recent events police shootings and other events have created a cultural divide and naturally cause an artistic individual to express themselves through their medium.  For us its comics, its the creation of stories that translate our opinions on such delicate matters.  This article was created to contain the tools necessary to express your thoughts through your comic without being offensive and carrying out your message.

I know there are readers about there that think "I don't care if I piss off some people!".  The reason this is wrong is because you'll limit your fan base and maybe put yourself in a bad situation that could cost you a publishing gig or burn some bridges with other great creators.  You can still get your message across and let people know how you feel without getting carried away.

Here are a few things we will cover:

Racial Comics vs Hate Speech
Working with Diversity and Culture
Colorful Language
Working with and around Stereotypes
Racial and Cultural Topics and Themes to Write About

This will help you navigate this complex territory without losing any friends and come out with a strong message.  Understand that racism and prejudice is making a come back so we as comic creators in touch with young readers have the opportunity to make a difference.

Racial Comics vs Hate Speech

You can write a story about racism and it will fall into one of two categories: a story about racism or hate speech.  When you write a story there's usually an under lined theme that is apparent in your story through a series of events and or actions.  The resolution should push forth that message by promoting what the theme or message is.  The messages used in racial stories illustrate the injustices faced by that particular group of people or culture BUT offer a positive resolution in the end.  It is when you finish your story with a negative message that you fall into the hate speech which will limit your success to get the book published or even read.

Working with Diversity and Culture

Understand that there are many different cultures in the world with very unique views.  If you wish to work with different cultures you must first do your due diligence and research the culture.  Race is one thing but culture is another and usually the one you represent by the way your characters act. You can have a Black, Asian, or Hispanic character but the culture could be Haitian or American Black, Chinese or Japanese, Cuban or Puerto Rican.  There are very distinct characteristics about each culture to take into account.  Lucky for you, just like you are able to read this article you are also able to search the web for information about different cultures.  You will want to research:

• Slang
• customs
• food
• history
• current events

The CIA World Fact Book online is a great place to start along with Wikipedia.

Working with Colorful Language

Most cultures have a slang that is particular to them.  By using it in context and with the guidelines you have setup for your audience, you can easily submerge your readers into a rich story filled with diversity.  Remember to include a translation near the lexicon (slang).  Some slang may not be appropriate for your audience, especially if you market to younger readers. 

(To be continued in issue #1)