The Black Woman in European Media

Got this interesting question the other day:

Are black women in Sweden or Europe in general portrayed better in the media than in the States (i.e. Hollywood, rap videos, etc.)? How so?

In some ways I would say yes, and in some way no.

First of all, Europe and specially Sweden are very inspired by The States in so many ways. From culture, music, movies, tv, food etc. And american TV series and movies are very common here, so in that way I would say it is the same as in U.S. And when it comes to music -  american hip-hop and r&b are very popular here too. In those ways I guess it's the same way as in the States. But in some ways we are looking at thos culture aspects in a not allways "dead-serious" way. So if the black woman are portrayed in one special "american" way, whe can see through it. But in many ways, the black woman often appear in media as a "victim" - like the vulnerable and exposed african woman.

But in many ways, the black woman are also shown in a way more positive way - though creativity for example. So it is no easy question to answer.

My fellow Europeans - fill me in! :)