Introduction to the Themes
Three themes that I found in my sample of Super Bowl advertisements are: The trauma of Black people used to sell or promote, Black people portrayed as entertainers, and white people portrayed as awkward or uncool. These themes perpetuate stereotypes and may confirm them for the millions of Americans who watch the Super Bowl on an annual basis. While the presence of these stereotypes is alarming, it is not surprising when considering the racialization of American society. I argue that these three themes found prominently in Super Bowl advertisements may have significant ramifications on Super Bowl viewers and requires further research.