Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
10-2025
School/College
School of Communication (SOC)
Degree Name
MA in Communication
Committee Chairperson
Dr. Toniesha Taylor
Committee Co-Chairperson
Dr. Morgan Kirby
Committee Member 1
Dr. Zantel Nichols
Committee Member 2
Dr. Jafas Cavil
Abstract
This thesis examines how Black women navigate and thrive within white, male- dominated sports media and industry spaces, utilizing the frameworks of Black Feminist Rhetoric and Co-Cultural Communication Theory. Using rhetorical and media discourse analysis of public figures, including Jemele Hill, Maria Taylor, Pam Oliver, Serena Williams, and Venus Williams, the study examines how Black women employ communicative strategies such as assimilation, accommodation, and separation, alongside rhetorical acts of voice, resistance, and representation, to navigate systemic inequities. These cases illustrate how language, credibility, and identity function as tools of survival and empowerment within institutions designed for exclusion. Findings reveal that Black women's success is rooted in intentional rhetorical action—asserting authority, challenging stereotypes, and redefining representation. Ultimately, the study argues that equity in sports media requires moving beyond symbolic inclusion toward institutional transformation that values Black women as authoritative voices in shaping sports discourse.
Copyright
Copyright © for this work is retained by the author. Any documents and information presented are protected by copyright under US Copyright laws and are the property of the author. All Rights Reserved. For permission to use this content please contact the author or the Graduate School at Texas Southern University ([email protected]).
Recommended Citation
Harvey, Rylan A., "The Lack Of Representation Of Black Women In The Sports Industry & Media" (2025). Theses (2016-Present). 96.
https://digitalscholarship.tsu.edu/theses/96