On May 25, the Media Action Grassroots Network (MAG-Net) and Champaign Urbana Citizens for Peace and Justice hosted the Media Justice Salon, Distorting Democracy: Narratives that Make America Hate Again. We have all seen the hateful targeting of Arabs, Muslims, immigrants, Black communities and other activists during the presidential debates. This racist rhetoric is being used to create a wedge among black and brown communities, and increase resentment within white working class communities.
Our May Media Justice Salon examined the impact of hate speech in the elections, what public discourse has emerged, and what creative strategies organizers are using to shift hateful narratives. During the Salon, we learned of the organizing strategies happening in Chicago, Philly, Dallas and other cities across the country related to issues of political hate speech, misrepresentation of veterans and immigrants, as well as community mobilizing strategies to hold political leaders accountable. As we continue to address racist rhetoric across the country, we know it is critical that those most impacted must be mobilized to become political change agents.
If you missed Distorting Democracy, make sure to check out the presentation recording and learn more about our featured speakers:
- Aaron Ammons, Champaign Urbana Citizens for Peace and Justice
- Erika Almirón, Juntos
- Page May, Assata’s Daughters
- Ramon Mejia, Iraq Veterans Against the War
- Tess Raser, Assata’s Daughters
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Previously known as Digital Dialogues, Media Justice Salon’s are interactive webinars that highlight top line media and communication policy issues that impact our communities. Media Justice Salons are a great educational opportunity for network member organizations to learn more about critical media issues, connect with leaders in the field, and to find out how to take action.
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Want to learn more about how your organization can join an upcoming Media Justice Salon? Please contact Angella Bellota, Membership Organizer: [email protected]
