I will be researching West Side Story and the idea of racial discrimination and isolation toward the Puerto Ricans.

Negron-Mutaner–

Race: The Puerto Ricans/Sharks are treated as a separate community from the Americans. They are portrayed as “other,” and isolated from “real” Americans; different, dirty, poor, exotic, and unwelcome. This is problematic to real Puerto Ricans watching the film, seeing their people portrayed so poorly. Meanwhile, the Polish gang, also immigrants, aren’t treated like such, because they fit the standards of “American” looks.

Gender & Sexuality: The men are seen as street rats, gang members, and leaders. Meanwhile, the women are seen as sexual objects, virginal, and naive. The Puerto Rican men seem to be “in charge” of the women.

Class: The Puerto Ricans are portrayed as poor by default. As if all Puerto Ricans are poor and dirty and below white Americans.

WSS Movie- “America”

Race: Race plays a large role in the song America. Every disadvantage they have is related to their race in one way or another. For example; you will only succeed if you’re white. Or, renters will not want to rent to you if you look to be non-white. The Puerto Ricans are at a disadvantage solely because they are white. Another example is, of course, “Gee, Officer Krupke” where the Polish (white) gang goes on about the many excuses they have for committing crimes, that the Puerto Ricans would not be allowed to use. (This song is actually a pretty good social commentary that holds up well today, if viewed as satire.)

Gender&Sexuality: The two genders are portrayed as polar opposites. The women are hopeful, somewhat naïve, and excited about the American Dream, whereas the men are “realistic” and shoot down everything the women say. Puerto Rican women are shown to be blind to reality, and unclear about who the American Dream is really for. Anita is treated as if she’s rebellious and crazy, as she suggests that a man might just be incorrect. (Inconceivable!!!!)

Class: The Puerto Ricans are portrayed as lower class; the women work in a dress shop. In the song “America” the women dream about simple things like renting a home and having a washing machine, things that are unattainable to them because they are Puerto Rican. The men, in “America”, even say the only jobs they could get are shining shoes and cleaning tables. (Jobs that require no experience and are stereotypically saved for unskilled immigrants.)

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