Joshua Rashaad McFadden

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The Economist: Portraits of protest in America

The Economist featured my work in an article titled "Portraits of Protest in America" on June 5, 2020. This piece highlighted the experiences of four African-American photographers, including myself, documenting the demonstrations sparked by George Floyd's death. The article explores the powerful impact of capturing these historic protests and the broader conversation around police brutality and systemic racism.

In the article, I shared my perspective on documenting the protests and the emotional weight of capturing such pivotal moments. The Economist emphasized how Floyd's death, captured in a harrowing video, ignited widespread fury and protests across America, highlighting the disproportionate impact of systemic racism and the coronavirus pandemic on ethnic minorities. The protests have varied in nature, with some peaceful demonstrations facing aggressive police responses, including the use of rubber bullets and tear gas.

This feature underscores the critical role of Black photographers in documenting the fight for racial justice. By capturing these moments, we bring attention to the urgent need for change and contribute to the broader discourse on racial inequality. The Economist article amplified the significance of our work, showcasing how visual storytelling can convey the deep emotions and realities of the protests, inspiring a global audience to reflect and act on these pressing issues.