Young, Missing and Black: Media Silence and the Trauma Associated with the Disappearance of Black Women and Girls

• In Event: Four years after #SayHerName: Black women and state violence

Abstract

According to the Center for Missing and Exploited Children, Black girls comprise nearly 32% of all girls missing in America. However, rarely is news of the disappearance of Black girls elevated to the level of national attention. This lack of media attention, gives credence to the notion that the lives of Black girls are either unworthy or undeserving of attention. Furthermore, the apathy displayed toward missing Black girls and their families is often traumatizing. Recognizing these issues, the following research will: 1) use an intersectionality framework to center the stories of missing Black girls, 2) explore the trauma associated with the disappearance of Black girls, and 3) critically analyze the media coverage of missing black girls in the era of #SayHerName. Implications for policy and practice will also be discussed.

Author

• Chenelle A. Jones, Franklin University