The Racial Representation in Avatar: The Last Airbender

Avatar: The Last Airbender is a renowned animated series that has captivated audiences with its intricate world, magical elements, and compelling characters. One often overlooked aspect of the show is the racial representation of its inhabitants, with many arguing that the series lacks diversity, particularly in terms of black and white people. Let's delve deeper into this topic and explore the underlying reasons and cultural influences.

Cultural Influences and Racial Diversity

Avatar: The Last Airbender is not a representation of reality but a fantastical world inspired by various Asian cultures. This means the depiction of racial diversity is subjective and tailored to align with these cultural inspirations.

1. Negritos and South Asians

It’s important to note that some of the original inhabitants of specific regions in the show might draw from historical and mythological references. For instance, the Negritos, who are referred to as 'little black ones' in the Philippines, and South Asians who were darker before colonization, could serve as inspirations. Due to the fantastical setting, any real-world racial lines are blurred and interpreted through the lens of cultural stories and myths.

2. Skin Tone and Characterization

Most characters in the series are depicted as white, though not exclusively European. Characters like Ty Lee and Suki have European facial features, which might suggest they are not Asian. In contrast, characters like Mai and Toph exhibit more pronounced Asian characteristics. Guru Pathik, Katara, and Sokka, on the other hand, display darker skin tones inspired by Inuit and Indian appearances.

3. Asian-Inspired World with Limited Racial Portrayal

The world of Avatar is heavily influenced by East and Southeast Asian culture and mythology, leading to characters with features we might associate with Asian individuals in the Western world. The series also incorporates Native American and Pacific Islander cultures, particularly in the Water Tribe. However, the Fire Nation, which has significant maritime capabilities, does not show evidence of contact with external groups, suggesting a closed, isolated society.

4. The Argument Against Adding Black and White Characters

Many argue that adding black and white characters to the show would disrupt the Asian cultural representation that the series aims to celebrate. The show is designed to reflect a world that is primarily Asian, and deviating from this theme might be misleading. Guru Pathik, being an Indian character, only gets a pass because of his cultural background, highlighting the cultural sensitivity required in revisiting and representing diverse worldviews.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the racial representation in Avatar: The Last Airbender is a complex interplay of cultural influences and fictional storytelling. While it's true that the series might lack certain diversities, it also helps to maintain the integrity of its cultural inspiration. The absence of black and white characters can be seen as a deliberate choice to uphold the show's adherence to its Asian heritage, ensuring that the world it creates resonates authentically with its cultural roots.