Oscar Micheaux works are all centralized with the concept of Black Identity. Black identity is a complex and nuanced concept. As one of the first African American filmmakers, Micheaux used his films as a way to explore and comment on the experiences of black people in America. Through his works, he sought to challenge negative stereotypes and to give voice to the African American community. His films don’t only relate during the time these films were created but also relate to today’s society. Micheaux is a role model for portraying and speaking out for representation in the media.
One common theme that is presented in many of Micheaux’s films is the struggle of black self-determination and autonomy. In this weeks screenings we watch a film “Within Our Gates". Within the film, the protagonist, Sylvia Landry, must navigate the complexities of race and class to achieve her goals. Sylvia is am highly educated girl who goes face to face with racism and poverty. Micheaux focuses on the complexities of black identity and diversity from multiple black experiences. Oscar uses Sylvia as a window to show the challlenges the one-sided
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In this film we are focused on the lives of black people who are living in the rural south. We also watch how they are impacted by economic hardship as well as racism. Micheaux explores the theme of black identity through the main character Lena. Lena is torn between her loyalty to her family as well as wanting to pursue her own life through her dreams and passions. She struggles to bring her own identity and independence due to the cultural and social constraints placed upon black people during the time in society. This makes it difficult for Lena to escape the poverty and oppression that we see throughout her life. Micheaux brings light to the challenges that black people face when in their path of self-determination as well as the complexities of Black