Overview
For this assignment, you will examine the sociological concepts of intersectionality based on the business of sports. Answer the following questions below in a five-to-seven-page reflection:
Explain why different U.S. regions, such as the South, North, Southwest, and Midwest, may produce different interactions among race, gender, and sports. How might both history and economic conditions affect these differences?
Analyze how the business of sports is significantly influenced by other institutions, such as educational and community organizations.
- How might changes in these institutions (values, structure, or resources) lead to the increased or decreased participation of various groups in sports?
- Summarize how the interactions among race, gender, and sport have changed across the United States. What might be the future trends in sports, based on current demographics and other potential shifts? For example, how might fan bases influence trends?
Some identities in society provide a certain level of status to the people who embody them. In some communities, for example, becoming a professional athlete or being in the entertainment industry (e.g., being a musician or an actor) may be seen as “ways out.” Describe your current beliefs about how an identity, such as that of a professional athlete, lessens the likelihood of individuals experiencing racism and racial profiling? Please present your answer in detail.
Define how sports have affected your own life. What kinds of racial messages have been associated with your contact with sports?
- If you did not engage or interact with sports, consider using someone you know to address.