Final answer:
Mexican and Mexican American characters have historically been portrayed stereotypically in films, often as unable to control their destinies. This issue is part of a broader pattern of representation that reflects and perpetuates discrimination. The Mexican American civil rights movement aimed to counteract these narratives and celebrate cultural identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The portrayal of Mexican and Mexican American characters as childlike and unable to control their own personal or social destinies in films is part of a broader historical context of stereotypical representation in media. In the past, the media has often presented stereotypes of minorities, offering a single narrative that neglects the complexities and diversities of these communities. This portrayal extends beyond fiction, reflecting societal attitudes and shaping the public’s perceptions.
Historically, Mexican Americans faced significant challenges including disenfranchisement, loss of land, and systemic discrimination as seen during the conquest of territories after the Mexican Cession. The media's role in reflecting and perpetuating these sentiments is rooted in the scarce and often negative representation of Mexicans and Mexican Americans. This has contributed to a persisting view that marginalizes these communities and oversimplifies their experiences.
The Mexican American civil rights movement sought to counter these narratives by advocating for improved education, representation, and the celebration of cultural identity. Activists like Ernesto Galarza and Americo Paredes worked to bring attention to the challenges faced by Mexican American communities and to present an alternative narrative to that dominated by stereotypes and discrimination.