Graffiti as communication: Exploring the discursive tensions of anonymous texts

Abstract

This study views graffiti as a communicative opportunity to gather insights into the discursive tensions associated with how marginalized groups treat each other through anonymous text. Graffiti are considered anonymous texts that enact identity, resistance, and oppression. Specifically, this study explores graffiti at a predominantly Black university in order to explore how marginalized members of society enact or react to hegemonic conditions. The graffiti revealed a pervasive focus on sex, sexual orientation, and racial identity. This study clearly demonstrates a propensity for marginalized members of society to perpetuate the status quo in a number of issues (e.g., sex, sexual orientation, racial identities/stereotypes).