Copaganda Exposed with Chenjerai Kumanyika

Black History Year

Today's History Story: John Johnson Attica

Have you ever stopped to consider how much media focuses on police narratives? The sheer volume almost feels dystopian. There’s even a term for it: copaganda. Whether you’ve heard it or not, copaganda's reach is vast, with even vaster consequences. It infiltrates every form of media, from the morning news to evening cartoons.

So what's the history of copaganda -- and how do we combat the pervasive presence of policing on our screens? Today’s guest has some ideas.

Chenjerai Kumanyika is a journalist, author, and organizer working at the intersections of social justice and emerging media in the cultural and creative industries. He’s also the host of "Empire City," a mind-blowing podcast about the history of policing, coming this fall.

This conversation might have you seeing your favorite movies in new and interesting ways. Because beneath the layers of plot and character, you might just uncover a piece of copaganda.

To learn more about Chenjerai's work, visit XX.

Black History Year (BHY) is produced by PushBlack, the nation's largest non-profit Black media company. PushBlack exists to amplify the stories of Black history you didn't learn in school and explore pathways to liberation with people who are leading the way. You make PushBlack happen with your contributions at BlackHistoryYear.com — most people donate $10 a month, but every dollar makes a difference. If this episode moved you, share it with your people! Thanks for supporting the work.

Hosting BHY is Darren Wallace. The BHY production team includes Jareyah Bradley, Brooke Brown, and Amber Davis. Our producers are Cydney Smith and Len Webb for PushBlack, and Lance John with Gifted Sounds edits and engineers the show. BHY’s executive producers are Julian Walker and Lilly Workneh.

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