Does NY Times Gift Guide Play Into Racial Stereotypes?

[Liberal_in_LA]

Does NY Times Gift Guide Play Into Racial Stereotypes?

By Lizz Carroll - Dec 14, 2009

Did The New York Times play into negative racial stereotypes with its holiday gift guide? With terms such as "the Mocha Manual" and a product line aimed at people who have "problem hair," the Times seems to have gone over the line. But the newspaper denies it, saying the guide is "relevant and appealing."

Bloggers, however, are definitely offended by the guide. NYTPicker.com, a blog that is dedicated to analyzing The New York Times, called the guide's special section "Of Color | Stylish Gifts" racist and criticized the newspaper for its selection of gifts that not only pointedly suggest products aimed to specific racial/ethnic groups but are also based on skin color.

A new addition this year, the section was intended to cater to its readers who are potentially looking for "gifts created for and by people of color," according to The New York Times. Groups included were Black, Latino, East Asian and Asian Indian.

Among the collection of gift suggestions were:

"The Mocha Manual to Military Life: A Savvy Guide for Wives, Girlfriends and Female Service Members," a guidebook for Black relatives or girlfriends of military personnel
"Hair Rules," a product line for those with "problem hair"
"Asian Faces: The Essential Beauty and Makeup Guide for Asian Women"
"Ash Kumar's Bollywood Henna Kit," a DIY makeup kit
"A Wise Latina" T-shirt
"Baby Jamz," "an interactive hip-hop and rhythm-based toy line."

http://diversityinc.com/content/1757/article/6985/?

[blondeatlast]

1. Or did they just mention some handy gifts for people who wouldn't know these things existed

otherwise?

[virgogal]

2. No. Handy products for those that want them.

[msongs]

3. guess these easily offended types never watch BET or read Ebony nt

[blondeatlast]

4. Good point. nt