Stereotypes In The Blind Side

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Recommended: Racism in sport and its impact on society

For millions of impoverished African American youths across the nation, the journey from the projects to success is few and far between. Rather than focusing on education and personal development, young children are introduced to violence and “the struggle” from a young age. However, for a few lucky stars such as Michael Oher, athletics provide an avenue to reach stardom. “The Blind Side” is a 2009 film following the true life story of Oher, his rise from a tough upbringing in Memphis project housing to his eventual fate as a first round draft pick to the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens. Growing up in a broken family, Michael was separated from his crack-addicted mother at the age of 7 and never knew his father. After bouncing to multiple foster homes, Michael finally is given an opportunity when he is living with his friend Ryan. At the head football coaches urging of the school’s administration, he is given the opportunity to attend Wingate Christian school - despite his poor academic record - due in part to his extreme size and athleticism. Michael’s fortunes increase further when the Tuohy family, who aids Michael’s forthcoming success immensely, takes him in. In utter contrast to his upbringing, the Tuohy’s are a multi-millionaire, Keeping Up With The Jonses, white family. The family takes Oher in as one of their own, buying him …show more content…

The film as adapted from a true story, Michael Oher was truly adopted by the white, affluent Tuohy family and is currently one of the best offensive linemen in the NFL. Although critiqued by some, it is true that some white families do take in troubled African American youth to improve their life quality. Regardless of the truth behind the story, there are many instances throughout the film in which racial prejudice is evident. There are two particular scenes that stand out which highlights these racial

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