| dc.description.abstract | This thesis seeks to examine the nature of representation, or lack thereof, of Palestinian citizens of Israel on prime-time of Israeli Hebrew-language television by analysing two television programs created by the members of Palestinian minority. By doing so this paper attempts to situate the Palestinian minority of Israel within the Israeli context and not in the context of Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Since the state was established back in 1948, it was meant to be a homeland for the Jewish people. Palestinians who remained within the borders of the new state are often seen as a threat, their loyalty is questioned, and it is still common to refer to them as a fifth column. Media representation plays an important role when it comes to minority representation and a fair reflection of cultural diversity. Media representation includes both participation and recognition. Participation is not just about visibility and presence on the national channels, but also the opportunity to present themselves to the majority and determine the way they would like to be perceived. Is it possible for a minority to renegotiate their social identity using national TV channels as the platform to speak out and, potentially, dismantling some of the stereotypes? The results of this study indicate that achieving this goal is only partially feasible, given the impact of the powerful Zionist narrative on shaping the self-perceptions of Palestinian citizens within the state. However, the cultural production examined in this thesis has the capacity to question entrenched narratives by addressing significant subjects that provoke discussion among audiences, while also advocating for Palestinian actors, actresses, and the Arabic language on television screens. | eng |