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Revision with unchanged content. The Human Stain (2003), Kinsey (2004), Spanglish (2004), and Crash (2005) are all American films that were produced in the spirit of multi cul tu ra lism; each created in an attempt to help Americans deal with and digest diversity. But do they all celebrate diversity? And if they do celebrate diversity, what is their approach? Film not only shapes but represents American culture, and this work will explore representations of race, class, gender, and sexuality within Hollywood cinema. Is Hollywood continuing to divide Americans when it comes to race, class, gender, and sexuality, or are they finally attempting to unite the nation? Moreover, this work will trace the roots of multiculturalism and examine the role of multiculturalism in the United States today, while at the same time exploring Richard Rorty s concept of human solidarity.

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received her Ph.D. in Humanities from Florida State University. While at Florida State, Belle taught Multicultural Film and also worked as a Teaching Enhancement Associate. Belle is currently a faculty member at Brookstone School in Columbus, Georgia, where she teaches for the History Department.

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