Reframing Race: Cultural Identity and Representation in Participatory Media

Abstract

This paper explores how participatory media platforms reshape cultural identity and representation, challenging traditional narratives of race. With the rise of social media, digital storytelling, and collaborative content creation, marginalized communities gain agency to construct, contest, and disseminate their own narratives. This study examines the intersection of race, media, and identity, analyzing how participatory media empowers users to challenge stereotypes, negotiate cultural meaning, and cultivate transnational communities. Through case studies, theoretical frameworks, and critical analysis, this paper highlights the potential of participatory media to transform public discourse on race while also addressing the limitations and challenges inherent in digital platforms.