Renowned journalist and author Nikole Hannah-Jones has responded to fitness influencer Jillian Michaels’ attempt to downplay the impact of slavery in the US, emphasizing the importance of expertise and nuance in understanding this complex issue.
Hannah-Jones drew on three decades of research to provide a historically accurate perspective on the topic. Her work highlights the need for context and accuracy in discussing slavery’s legacy, particularly in today’s social media landscape where soundbites often dominate the conversation.
To address these attempts at whitewashing history, Hannah-Jones has created various resources, including her Pulitzer Prize-winning book “The 1619 Project,” a podcast, documentary, and educational curriculum. These works offer an unapologetic and comprehensive look at American history from the perspective of Black people.
Other notable authors contributing to this conversation include Michael Harriot with his book “Black AF History” and Ibram X. Kendi’s “Stamped From the Beginning.” These works provide a detailed exploration of how racist ideas were created in America, tracing their roots back centuries.
These resources offer a powerful counter-narrative to the minimization of slavery’s impact, emphasizing its ongoing relevance in modern society. By prioritizing expertise and nuance, Hannah-Jones’ work provides a crucial foundation for a more accurate understanding of American history and its ongoing effects.
Source: https://naacp.org/articles/whitewashing-slavery-not-nikole-hannah-jones-watch