Reveal Nikole Hannah-Jones: Trump Is Erasing Black History
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May 7, 2025 Nikole Hannah-Jones, an acclaimed New York Times journalist and Howard University professor, delves into how the Trump administration is actively dismantling civil rights and DEI policies. She highlights the alarming speed of this regression and reflects on the challenges of reframing American history amid political opposition. With her groundbreaking work on The 1619 Project, she underscores the necessity of understanding the complexities of Black history and the urgent need for community action in light of these growing threats.
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Historic Civil Rights Rollback
- Trump's administration rolls back civil rights farther than post-1960s, reaching back to the early 20th century nadir period.
- We are living through a historically unprecedented federal government weaponization against civil rights.
Surviving 1619 Project Backlash
- Nikole Hannah-Jones initially fought back angrily against criticism of the 1619 Project, even fueling media attacks unintentionally.
- She endured personal threats but learned her work's success meant engaging critics only diluted her message.
Power of National Myths
- Myth appeals to identity and emotions, making it stickier than dry truth which appeals to the mind.
- Myths justify power structures, so truth requires active defense unlike mythology's easy acceptance.