MSNBC’s sudden firing of award-winning journalist Joy Reid has caused an uproar in the Black community, with many speculating that Reid's criticism of the president and advocacy for Black issues were behind the move. Whatever the reason, her firing should remind us of the power of Black media as a force for resistance against white supremacy.
Historically, many white newspapers in the South were staunchly and avowedly anti-Black. Until the Civil War, these newspapers ran ads for slave auctions. After the war, they would announce lynchings and refer to Black people as “negros” and “negresses,” and even as "the nigger." The hatred was real, but luckily, Black publications rallied against it.
To defy white supremacist narratives, Black journalists put themselves in danger to report the truth on race in America. Ida B. Wells reported on lynchings; L. Alex Wilson was hit with a brick while reporting on the Little Rock Nine. Black journalists like them are still pushing the message forward, in the press, over the airwaves, and online.
Dr. King and other civil rights leaders used courageous Black journalists who slipped in and out of the South, to spread their truth. Their coverage attracted international attention and support for civil rights, making these journalists the conscience of our nation.
Black journalists document our experiences and tell the truth that legacy media would prefer to hide or whitewash. As they come under attack, we must support them in every way we can.