Ana Paula Machado Carneiro
Research Mentor: Marisol Fila
Mentor Department: Romance Languages and Literatures, LSA
Author(s): Ana Paula Machado Carneiro, Marisol Fila
Session: Session 4 (1:00 PM – 1:50 PM)
Presentation Type: Poster 53
Abstract
As the digital world continues to expand, editorial and print media face growing pressure to shift toward digital platforms. This dilemma is especially significant for Black media in Latin America, as many organizations/news outlets have transitioned almost entirely to online platforms. However, there is limited research examining how this shift impacts racial self-definition, community building, and social change. Therefore, this project aims to address that gap by analyzing how the digital interfaces and structures of Latin American Black media compare to traditional print media and how these forms shape representation, visibility, and engagement. To conduct this research, I first reviewed scholarly and journalistic sources on Black media across Latin America, focusing on Brazil, Uruguay, Cuba, and Argentina to really understand how national histories influence media practices. I compiled and analyzed a database of Black media outlets and projects, examining 17 platforms (primarily from Brazil) across websites and social media. Each platform was analyzed based on voice, target audience, socio-political impact, format and design, stylistic choices, and funding models, allowing for cross-platform comparison and revealing that each media platform serves a distinct role within Black communities. Despite these differences, all platforms shared a strong commitment to amplifying Black voices and creating spaces for collective identity and resistance. However, the study also found that limited funding, low visibility, and weak organizational structures restrict the long-term sustainability and reach of many digital platforms. The findings suggest that hybrid or print-based models may offer greater stability and visibility, highlighting the need for broader structural support for Black media in Latin America.
