“I Voted” stickers have become a symbol of civic engagement and pride for voters across the country. On election day this November, millions of Americans will proudly wear these stickers as a badge of honor, signaling that they have exercised their right to vote. The simple act of wearing a sticker may seem trivial, but it holds significant meaning in a democracy where every vote counts.
However, amidst the excitement of election day, there is a darker side to the political landscape that is targeting and feeding disinformation to Black online communities. A recent report by Onyx Impact sheds light on the tactics used by various online mediums to spread misinformation and manipulate Black voters. The report identifies six key sources of disinformation, including gateway influencers and platforms, far-right activists and media outlets, the Black manosphere, Black extreme nativists and separatists, health skeptics, and foreign actors.
One of the key findings of the report is the role of gateway influencers and platforms in spreading political misinformation. These influencers, who have a large following in Black online spaces, are often used as a tool to disseminate far-right claims and conservative ideologies to Black audiences. This deliberate effort to skew the Black vote is exemplified by cases such as conservative activists fined by the FCC for making illegal robocalls to deter Black voters from voting by mail.
The impact of misinformation on young Black voters is significant, as it distorts their perception of political issues and undermines informed decision-making. Social media algorithms play a role in perpetuating misinformation by tailoring content to users‘ existing beliefs, regardless of its accuracy. This systemic use of misinformation, especially for attacking opponents, reflects a troubling trend that hinders political engagement and perpetuates voter suppression efforts.
In response to the spread of disinformation, there is a growing need for trusted Black messengers and media outlets to combat false narratives and provide accurate information to the community. Recommendations from the report include identifying reliable sources of information and steering clear of traditional legacy outlets with profit motives. Instead, platforms like podcasts, websites, and political commentators are suggested as sources of trustworthy information for young Black voters.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, it is essential for Black communities to have access to accurate and reliable information that builds trust, power, and community. By being mindful of the sources of information they consume and seeking out trusted messengers, Black voters can combat the spread of disinformation and make informed decisions that reflect their values and beliefs.