The Black Lives MatterLinks to an external site. movement has sparked important conversations about racial injustice and systemic discrimination in America. At its core, the movement challenges the criminal justice system, focusing on issues like policing practices and mass incarceration, which disproportionately affect communities of color. These are heavy but vital topics, and by exploring them, you can develop a deeper understanding of the systemic inequalities that shape our society and the efforts being made to create change.
Take some time to explore the BLM websiteLinks to an external site. and the resources I’ve provided below. These materials will help you better understand the movement’s goals and the issues at its heart. As you engage with them, think about how the textbook explains the process of constructing social problemsLinks to an external site., particularly claimsmaking: the act of drawing attention to troubling conditions. Activists, as explained in the textbook (see this sectionLinks to an external site.), play a critical role as claimsmakers. They shine a light on injustices, mobilize others to demand change, and help us see societal issues that we might not have noticed before.
In this assignment, we’ll focus on how activists use framing to help people understand social problems and take action. Activists answer three key questions when framing issues:
- What is the nature of the problem? (Diagnostic FrameLinks to an external site.)
- Why should we act? (Motivational FrameLinks to an external site.)
- How can we address the problem? (Prognostic FrameLinks to an external site.)
As your instructor, I want to remind you that exploring these topics can feel challenging or emotional at times, and that’s okay. This is a space for learning, reflection, and growth. By examining how the BLM movement frames social problems, you’ll gain valuable insights into the power of activism and how we can all work toward a more equitable society. Take your time, be thoughtful, and know that I’m here to support you as you engage with this meaningful work.
Instructions
Step 1:
- Visit the Black Lives Matter Website
Go to the Movement for Black Lives (M4BL) website at m4bl.orgLinks to an external site.. Spend some time exploring the topics and resources available, especially the "Vision for Black Lives" section. This section highlights key issues and priorities of the movement. Choose one specific topic.
Step 2:
- Analyze your selected topic Using Framing Questions from Ch. 3Links to an external site.
Once you’ve chosen your topic, use the three framing questions to guide your analysis:- What is the problem? (Diagnostic Frame)
Clearly identify the specific issue or condition the movement is addressing (e.g., police violence, housing inequality). - Why should we act? (Motivational Frame)
Explain why this issue is important and why action is necessary. Consider its societal, moral, and systemic implications. - What should we do? (Prognostic Frame)
Propose solutions or strategies for addressing the issue, as suggested by the movement or based on your reflections.
- What is the problem? (Diagnostic Frame)
Step 3:
- Support Your Analysis with Evidence
Use evidence from the website including any data or research you find to strengthen your responses to the 3 framing questions. You can include:- Data, facts, or statistics from the articles or research on the site.
- Visuals like graphs, infographics, or charts.
- Key points or quotes from the articles, videos, or other media provided on the site.
- Any other relevant information that helps explain the issue and solutions.