So desperately sad. Thank you for writing this piece. Although I'm British, this still highlights how respectability politics, and the increased power that comes with 'respectable' roles, does nothing to address systemic racism. It isn't that marginalised people need to work harder to be part of the system - it's that the system needs to change.
"As journalists, our primary job is challenging power with truth and demanding accountability for oppressive actions. That’s not what mainstream reporting does in the US. Instead, we are left insulated from what is really happening in our communities and around the world."
I call it sanitized reality. Don't show the brutal bits because people just cannot handle reality is the excuse, and it benefits unjust systems of power.
I don't entirely agree that *massive* reforms need to be done...but in general - yes, we absolutely need change.
"Having roving gangs of cops like “jump-out” units who go far beyond their legal authority to oppress with impunity is dangerous even on the surface."
...yes! Like...WTF? These special forces tactics need to stop.
Right? It's so crazy how they continue to adopt failed military strategies.
So desperately sad. Thank you for writing this piece. Although I'm British, this still highlights how respectability politics, and the increased power that comes with 'respectable' roles, does nothing to address systemic racism. It isn't that marginalised people need to work harder to be part of the system - it's that the system needs to change.
"As journalists, our primary job is challenging power with truth and demanding accountability for oppressive actions. That’s not what mainstream reporting does in the US. Instead, we are left insulated from what is really happening in our communities and around the world."
I call it sanitized reality. Don't show the brutal bits because people just cannot handle reality is the excuse, and it benefits unjust systems of power.