By: MMM Editorial Team
As Black History Month ends, news leaders are urged to continue telling powerful, diverse stories through the rest of the year. Embracing Black voices and stories year-round is not only a moral imperative but also crucial for fostering inclusivity, accuracy and repairing centuries of media harm.
Media 2070, a project committed to radically transforming oppressive systems in the media, urged newsroom leaders to continue this work by:
Supporting Black Journalists: Newsrooms must prioritize the recruitment, retention, and advancement of Black journalists. By providing mentorship, equitable wages, professional development opportunities, and a supportive work environment, news leaders can ensure that Black voices are not only heard but also empowered within their organizations.
Community-Centric Reporting: Working to compassionately tell stories of marginalized communities is essential for fostering trust and understanding. News leaders should actively engage with community members, seek their perspectives, and amplify their voices in storytelling.
Questioning Harmful Narratives: News leaders have a responsibility to critically evaluate and challenge harmful narratives perpetuated by official sources, including police reports– particularly when depicting minority communities. It is essential to scrutinize the framing and context of such reports to avoid further marginalization and stigmatization.
By embracing these principles beyond Black History Month, news leaders can demonstrate their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion year-round. Through intentional actions and a steadfast dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices, media organizations can contribute to a more just and equitable society.