In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, Blacks still suffer unseen damages
I Messenger Media (IMM) EXPERIENCING A PANDEMIC: COVID-19 Changed the way “Normal” is Defined is a look at COVID-19 from various voices — some heard often, as well as those that are muted; especially in the African American Community.
IMM amplified those voices letting them be authentically presented without editing or interpretation.
This project was funded partially from the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) and the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) to support original and innovative coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic, the coronavirus vaccine, and how these topics intersect into the nation’s K-12 education system.
IMM, through articles, podcasts, social media and programs on cable television, have provided information that will help prepare for future pandemics because IMM believes this won’t be the last pandemic.
Download special edition below
As IMM tackled the subject of COVID-19 and the K-12 education system, they wanted to present several perspectives. So in addition to stories from dedicated professional journalists like National Association of Black Journalists founder Norma Adams-Wade (who also did a podcast), Sylvia Dunnavant, and co-horts at the National Newspaper Publishers Association, Black News Link, The Dallas Morning News, NABJ and SPJ, they also have educators, a school nurse and counselor, and healthcare professionals weighing in.
IMM staff talked with elected officials, the clergy, parents of children in K-12, and students in high school and college who also shared their experiences and insight. There’s also input from a makeup artist because whether it is the prom, graduation, or a sporting event, makeup is a hot commodity for not only high school, but junior high.
For this project, IMM also included up-to-date information on the coronavirus, along with resources like the Black Star Network, as they continue to deal with this pandemic.
IMM has also witnessed that many have gone back to life as they knew it before they first began hearing about this “coronavirus.” For some, the past two years could be summed up by legendary rapper, Biggie, who said in his chart topping song, Juicy Fruit, “It was all a dream!