Race, Ethnicity, Gender and Sexuality Research
Recognizing that the inclusion and equity of all populations — the true spirit of diversity — is critical to advancing our fields and disciplines, our scholars examine how communication influences our perception of race, ethnicity, gender and sexuality.
From the ways entertainment and media industries shape culture, to the ways communication law and algorithms shape experience, our experts engage consequential research that can help individuals and communities better understand structures of power, while imagining new models of equality and new forms of social action.
Race, Ethnicity, Gender and Sexuality research in action
Media’s role in shaping women’s identity
Lisa Pecot-Hébert researches theory and gender body image in the media, including by framing cosmetic surgery through a feminist lens.
Why Black activist media should be archived and studied for the West Coast
To preserve Black media and amplify Black media makers, activists and social changemakers, Allissa Richardson established the West Coast’s first Black media activism archive and social justice telling laboratory.
Talking about a revolution
The movement for racial justice resonates throughout the country and the USC Annenberg community.
Faculty researching in the field of Race, Ethnicity, Gender and Sexuality
Associated centers
Charlotta Bass Journalism and Justice Lab
The Charlotta Bass Journalism and Justice Lab saves, studies and shares news stories and oral histories about Black social justice trailblazers on the West Coast while also connecting USC Annenberg students to trusted media outlets that value Black storytelling.
Annenberg Inclusion Initiative (AII)
Annenberg Inclusion Initiative (AII) is a leading think tank dedicated to addressing issues of inequality in entertainment in order to define areas within the industry where diversity is needed.
Institute for Diversity and Empowerment at Annenberg (IDEA)
IDEA furthers the USC Annenberg legacy of diversity and empowerment studies by focusing on acclaimed scholars, leading research, compelling courses, and impactful programs that allow students to examine the vast complexities of diversity, identity, and culture.