Role of Media in Anti-Black Racism

Media networks have played a significant role in this fight against the racial system to gain equality. The Civil Rights Movement that took place between the 1950–60s was when the racial inequalities against the Black community were brought to the surface by the media outlets. It drew attention to the key events that took place in the era and the important issues that needed to be addressed. Therefore, it is evident that the role of media was critical and must have acted as a visual aid in support of the movement.

In the 13th Movie on Netflix, it is mentioned that the way Facebook and Twitter are used nowadays, Television was used back then; as a medium to share your experience with the world. We can see that this usually receives mixed reactions as some people stand up in support of the injustice while some against it. The case of police brutality against the Black community have been numerous and have been taking place for a long time. But only now, they are gaining widespread popularity and attention mainly because of media and technology. In my opinion, media has been beneficial to stand in opposition to the systemic anti-Black racism.

Black Lives Matter is one such example that gained popularity owing to social media. People took to popular social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram showing their support to the movement using the hashtag. It gave a chance to the Black community to speak about the injustices against them and the non-Black people to listen to them and stand in solidarity with them. The momentum gained by the Black Lives Matter movement wouldn’t have had been possible if it weren’t for social media. It initiated the much-needed conversations which is an important point that was also mentioned by Van Jones in the movie 13th.

To conclude, I would say that the media is a very powerful tool if used wisely. It can spark emotions and bring a change as it can reach millions of people. Owing to the participatory culture, social media allows people to share real, unfiltered accounts of racial inequality with the world, and as a result, can set in motion a global change.