Charlottesville and Beyond (Orientation) | The Free Speech Project [Video]

Context (10 min.) U.S. journalism has changed due to the closure of many local newspapers; an increase in small, independent, online outlets; and the omnipresence of social media. In your mind, what is the role of a free press in a democratic society? Discuss with a partner and then share with the group.

Video and Reflection (35 min.) Vice Media, a company founded by journalists, evolved from coverage of independent, local arts to a range of global news stories. Rather than mainstream media outlets, Vice was the main source of coverage of the rally. Watch Vice News’ video footage from the white supremacist march in Charlottesville:

Then discuss:

1. What did you notice?
2. What questions does this video raise?
3. To what historical contexts or events does this episode connect?
4. How does it extend questions raised by historical events?
5. How do the Charlottesville events challenge us? The status quo?