Parenthood - the television show, has been a favorite in our household since it first aired. This past Tuesday evening we finally had a little extra time after our daughter went to bed to watch the episodes that we had saved on our DVR. For those who have never seen the show.... It is about a family in Berkley, CA that consists of a couple, their 4 adult children and their spouses, and grandchildren. One of the couples is biracial and in the first episode of this year they had a second child. The entire family gathers for dinner shortly after the baby comes home form the hospital. Upon seeing the new baby 2 of the other family members exclaimed "she is so white". I immediately looked across the couch and said"that was a micro-aggression toward two of the family members". I also believe it was a nod to institutionalized bias in our society.
Although the statement did not appear to be said with a malicious intent, I believe the statement marginalizes and puts both the African American Mother of the baby and the first born child who is biracial with a darker skin tone at a disadvantage. The comment set two family members apart from the rest of the family as different and with a social identity that is at a disadvantage. When I saw this happen we paused the television and discussed it. I was particularly concerned about feeling's of the first born and that he would feel inferior and less visible than his sister and the rest of the grandchildren.
The incident was not addressed on the show which I found surprising. This depiction could have been a teachable moment if one of the characters had called the others out on their damaging comment. It would have been a great example for the viewing public to see. I am hoping the writers plan to come back and address this situation on a future episode. I will be disappointed if they do not.
Hi Betsy, I don't think that the writers will address the comment that was made on the show unless someone actually complains. I believe the statement was uncalled for and that it was really biased. Even in television shows, things are said without them knowing what they said and they don't realize it and they don't see how it can have a negative effect and impact on some people that are watching the show. A lot of people say things without the intentions of hurting other people’s feelings because they don't think before they blurt out things.
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