El Simpático Boxer: Underpinning Chicano Masculinity

Crystal Henriquez Alcantara
Reading Response 12

In Michelle A. Holling’s article “El Simpático Boxer: Underpinning Chicano Masculinity with a Rhetoric of Familia in Resurrection Blvd,” she highlights the TV show Resurrection Blvd effectively portrays Chicano masculinity within the context of family and familiar mainstream stereotypes, highlighting its unique characteristics and contribution to American reality. This portrayal challenges the standard representation of families on television, which tends to be patriarchal, white, nuclear, and gendered. Resurrection follows the Santiago familia in their pursuit of a world boxing championship dream, showcasing a wide range of archetypes such as the stoic male, the brooding silent type, and the

However, the show demonstrates progressiveness by featuring a widowed father, single-parent household, and gay character. Specifically, having the character in RB portray qualities shaping el simpatico boxer that depict honesty, loyalty, and trustworthiness such as having “the Santiago males consistently demonstrate loyalty toward family members and friends and [also] extend it to trainers and promoters based on their framing of boxing as a family business” (M.A. Holling 104). Ultimately, Resurrection succeeds in portraying Chicano masculinity as a multifaceted concept that is deeply embedded within la familia. This nuanced portrayal helps establish Chicanos as an integral part of the broader American family

Whites are often seen more as individuals rather than members of a group, and there is an apparent absence of negative stereotypes against them. This disparity grants White people a unique advantage when it comes to achieving success in society.
It is important to note that most White individuals today do not overtly hold racist views. However, many still possess stereotypical views of people of color, which can lead to discrimination in various aspects of life such as employment or housing. This discrimination is further exacerbated by factors such as the profit-centric structure of the broadcast industry and the FCC's passive stance on the issue. The underrepresentation of minority actors in prominent roles is another example of unequal opportunities within the media industry. In 1998, African American actors filled only 13.4% of roles despite making up a larger percentage of the population, whereas Hispanic, Asian American, and Native American actors were even further underrepresented. The manner in which the media portrays different racial groups has far-reaching consequences for both individuals and wider society. Addressing these disparities and ensuring fair representation across all aspects is crucial for promoting equality and dismantling the barriers created by