Let’s get one thing clear first: the structural problems in the media landscape discussed in this article are far from the most important issue raised by the Black Lives Matter movement. However, given the powerful role played by journalists and editors in shaping public opinion, their close ties to political elites, and their historic (and contemporary) role in perpetuating racist structures that govern our society, it is an industry that warrants critique.

Over the past week I have been blown away by the momentous culture change occurring in newsrooms and workplaces across the US media. The movement for racial justice, reignited recently by the death of George Floyd at the hands of police, has always been aimed at reshaping power relations, and it makes sense that its ramifications would also be felt inside media institutions.