Combatting Negative Depictions of Appalachia by Analyzing Diversity and Inclusivity within the Region

Aerianna McClanahan* and Rosemary Hathaway

Department of English, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Presentation Category: Human Engagement (Poster Presentation #138)

Student’s Major: English and Women's and Gender Studies

Appalachia continues to be wrongfully depicted as a homogeneous region inhabited by backward individuals who lack proper education. Consequently, this erroneous stereotype has created an implicit bias that is detrimental to those living both inside and outside of Appalachia. In this study, interviews were conducted with people considered to be regional activists, identifying as both Appalachian and staunch advocates for their communities. Questions about diversity and inclusivity in the region were asked in addition to inquiring about what work can still be done. The mutual consensus amongst the participants was that - although there will always be progress to be made - one cannot discredit the economic and cultural diversity that exists here, nor can they erase the rich demographic diversity of our region because there are a multitude of individual Appalachians who belong to a range of sexual minority, racial and ethnic groups - just to name a few. This study is significant because identifying and compiling a network of activists who are affecting change serves as a catalyst for a positive portrayal of the region. This network can now expand and be shared with others in hopes that a more accurate representation of Appalachia can be curated and maintained.

Funding: Honors EXCEL

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: WVU's SURE program