‘This Is Hope 2.0′: Roland S. Martin on the DNC’s Embrace of Alternative News Outlets, Kamala Harris’ Moment and Fighting Misinformation

As an avid movie enthusiast with over three decades of journalism under my belt, witnessing the transformation of media at the United Center during the Democratic National Convention has left me absolutely astounded. The growth of independent news outlets and digital journalists is nothing short of revolutionary, especially when compared to my first presidential nominating convention back in 1992 for President George H.W. Bush.

Amidst the Media Row area at the United Center, seasoned reporter Roland S. Martin delivered a strong declaration during the initial night of the Democratic National Convention.

For several hours, Roland Martin’s daily talk show series “Roland Martin Unfiltered” was in full swing, conducting one-on-one interviews and roundtable discussions from a temporary studio located in a busy corner sectioned off for non-CBS, ABC, NBC/MSNBC, Fox News, PBS, and CNN broadcast and digital platforms.

“Martin stated, ‘I believe that today, more African American voices have been featured on our broadcast than all of MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News will show for an entire week combined.’ This is in a single day, and it’s not just the same individuals we’re hearing from. That’s why our perspectives are important because we offer unique insights. Every black speaker on that stage – we broadcast their live speeches. Other networks might not be doing this, which makes what we do significant.'”

At the United Center and its surroundings, it’s unmistakable that the Harris-Walz campaign is open to a variety of news sources, such as up-and-coming digital journalists and content creators on platforms like YouTube, Substack, Patreon, Medium, etc. This presidential race, often referred to as the country’s first TikTok election, has also extended invitations to social media innovators. In fact, at Chicago’s McCormick Place facility, hosting the “DemPalooza” expo and other daytime events, these creators have their own designated credential line. The Democratic National Convention (DNC), scheduled from August 16th to 22nd, aims to help Vice President Kamala Harris and her partner, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, secure the White House in November.

On Monday evening, Martin surveyed the Media Row staging area and was astonished by the expansion of independent news sources since he covered his initial presidential nomination event as a reporter, namely the Republican National Convention in Houston for President George H.W. Bush back in 1992.

He stated that things have drastically altered since the audience has shifted, alluding to a diverse array of self-governing entities like his Black Star Network, which can be found in Media Row and span the political spectrum from conservative to liberal.

As a cinephile, it’s clear why I’ve chosen this digital route to share my film insights. In today’s world, social media and online platforms provide a straightforward path for distinct voices to connect with viewers and listeners directly. The trajectory of traditional media suggests that news distribution will be more tailored in the coming century compared to the last one. Martin points out that social media audiences are significantly younger than the older demographic that typically watches broadcast and cable TV news. However, he notes that his older fans have no issues staying updated through his YouTube channel, which boasts nearly 1.4 million subscribers. The Black Star Network skillfully arranges distribution for various programs across a variety of widely accessible free platforms.

In a discussion about a linear model, Martin pointed out an interesting contrast: traditionally, someone 65 or older might be considered relatively young for a cable network. However, data from his YouTube channel shows that one-third of his viewers in the last 28 days were over 65 years old. Interestingly, half of his audience is aged 54 and above. This indicates that even older individuals are seeking diverse perspectives.

Martin, with years of experience in the industry, previously worked as a news anchor for BET and TV One. He views his Washington D.C.-based “Unfiltered” show as an excellent demonstration, providing the type of “culturally relevant” content that his viewers might not encounter on MSNBC.

“When discussing Vice President Kamala Harris’ housing plan, I’m approaching it from a Black perspective. I invited a Black economist and the president of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers to speak. She emphasized that there are approximately 2 million African Americans who currently cannot afford to buy a home, a fact not often highlighted on financial news channels like CNBC and Bloomberg. What we’re trying to do is fill this informational gap by providing them with the type of information they aren’t getting elsewhere.”

Independent news media has greatly benefited from social media, but it can also be a powerful generator of false information. It’s crucial that seasoned journalists and commentators understand platforms like TikTok and future-generation tools, as these are influencing the perspective of Generation Z and beyond, according to Martin. Martin highlighted an urban legend that rapidly circulated within Black communities claiming the Biden administration had drastically reduced funding for Historically Black College and University (HBCU) institutions. As a seasoned print, TV, and digital journalist, combating misinformation is second nature to Martin, particularly in the intense context of an election year. Providing reliable information serves as excellent marketing for independent journalists like Martin.

As a long-time advocate for education equality and a firm believer in transparency, I can confidently say that the spread of false narratives about funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is not only misleading but also deeply disappointing. In my professional experience, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of education in shaping the lives of countless individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As a movie buff, I’ve always been captivated by political narratives, and the first day of the DNC was like watching an intense scene unfold. I, being part of this grand audience, took the pulse of Black voters and legislators regarding Harris’ potential in November. Although I remain cautious in my assessment, I can’t help but feel a sense of momentum reminiscent of President Barack Obama’s groundbreaking campaign in 2008. The parallels are striking, and I can’t wait to see how this story unfolds.

As a lifelong Democrat who has witnessed the rise and fall of several presidential candidates, I believe Martin’s observation hits the nail on the head. The contrast between the current political climate under Donald Trump and JD Vance, with their dark and pessimistic vision, and the optimism presented by Democrats could not be more stark.

Reflecting on the dramatic transformation in TV and news media since covering his first national political convention back at the Austin American-Statesman, Martin mused about how his own entertainment preferences have shifted over time. He marveled at the abundance of shows now readily available, naming “The Emperor of Ocean Park” and “The Godfather of Harlem,” both featuring Forest Whitaker, as recent favorites he’s been catching up on. Martin also sent a note to Netflix, expressing his eagerness for Season 3 of the Keri Russell drama series, “The Diplomat.”

“I’m like ‘Hurry the hell up.’ What are we waiting on, 2026?”

2024-08-20 18:51

‘This Is Hope 2.0′: Roland S. Martin on the DNC’s Embrace of Alternative News Outlets, Kamala Harris’ Moment and Fighting Misinformation

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