DAGR's Christine Calbos shares her take-aways from DAGR's Juneteenth Kafeneion event, #ABlackWomanToldMe with René Syler
Did you know that there are six states that do not officially celebrate Juneteenth, and ten states that still have holidays recognizing the confederacy? This was just one of the things discussed on June 19th at DAGR’s Kafeneion chat with René Syler: #ABlackWomanToldMe.
On Juneteenth DAGR members had the honor of chatting with René, a renowned broadcast television journalist, published author, and the first black woman to anchor a network morning show. René shared her in-depth knowledge of journalism and chatted with DAGR members about how to maintain a critical eye when it comes to deciphering today’s news.
With over 35 years of experience in broadcast journalism, René is well acquainted with the media. What did René have to say about reading the news and staying informed - particularly in an important election year? “Be critical, objective, cross reference, read reputable sources.” This may seem pretty straight forward, however it was clear from our discussion that in today’s age of information overload it has become harder and harder to identify and decipher truth vs. agenda-driven news stories. In some ways journalism has become the battleground where further division and discord is planted if we do not approach it with a more critical lens. Furthermore, information, history (particularly black history) and the voices of historically oppressed populations continue to be left out of schools and public conversation.
But does it really take someone being a journalist to recognize the legacy of slavery, the confederacy, and the deep rooted racism that continue to plague our institutions and communities? What might we all do to foster understanding and better allyship? René shared her perceptions of the widening divide between the American public, further exacerbated by us receiving our news in echo chambers. Perhaps just as important as René’s unique insight into the media industry, was her willingness to candidly answer our questions. DAGR members asked questions on intersectionality, journalism, and René’s experience as a black woman in America.
René herself shared that she learned about Juneteenth later in life, and much of black history was not (and in many cases continues to not be) accessible in schools. René spoke on the intersection of race and gender, and the discrimination she has often faced as a result. She spoke of wanting to create a better future for her children, especially as she has witnessed those with privilege “tuning-out” the news, while BIPOC individuals, especially women, continue to see their rights rolled back.
While we discussed macro level efforts we can all focus on to work towards a more equal society (voting, organizing), René also shared that on a more human level, she wishes people could have more real, authentic, friendships. Careful to emphasize the difference between authentic and performative relationships, René spoke to the insight white individuals would inherently learn from real friendships and conversations with black individuals.
In fact, René’s desire to amplify the wisdom of dynamic black women she has encountered throughout her life has served as inspiration for her new and upcoming podcast: #ABlackWomanToldMe. We are so grateful to René for sharing her wisdom and we are looking forward to the podcast!
Recordings of the Kafeneion can be viewed on our YouTube channel:
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