In an announcement made this week, YouTube CEO Susan Wojcicki addresed a range of issues, but most notably, focusing on YouTube’s response to the #BlackLivesMatter movement.
As explained by Wojcicki:
“We have always been proud that we are a platform that celebrates a broad and diverse set of voices, and we have implemented many policies and product features to protect our communities. But we recognize we need to do more, in particular with the Black community.”
She continued,
“We have always been proud that we are a platform that celebrates a broad and diverse set of voices. And we have implemented many policies and product features to protect our communities.
But we recognize we need to do more, in particular with the Black community, and that is why we are committing to following actions.”
YouTube has commited itself to amplifying black voices and creators on its platform through promoting the story-telling and content of the creators.
The information was highlighted in the same blogpost,
“Today, we’re announcing a multi-year $100 million fund dedicated to amplifying and developing the voices of Black creators and artists and their stories.
And one example of the type of content we’d like to elevate on the platform will premiere this Saturday, June 13. We’ll host a live stream fundraising event produced by YouTube Originals (YTO), “Bear Witness, Take Action.” The YTO will bring together creators, artists, influential public figures and prominent activist voices for roundtable discussions and musical performances, with donations benefiting the Equal Justice Initiative.
Through the month of June, our Spotlight channel will highlight racial justice issues, including the latest perspectives from the Black community on YouTube alongside historical content, educational videos, and protest coverage. This content showcases incredibly important stories about the centuries-long fight for equity.”
Wojcicki’s comments and YouTube’s dedication has been echoed by various organizations and companies internationally who have also pledged their support.
Companies such as Glossier, Savage x Fenty & Sunday Riley have shaken up the beauty industry by also pledging their support as many other companies continue to face major criticism and allegations of racism within their organizations and also in promotional and campaign work.
Would you like to see more companies follow suit?
Let us know in the comments below!