Western Media and the Double Standard in Portraying Black Men
How Media Narratives Still Distort the Image of Black Men While Excusing White Violence and Privilege
In the digital age, media narratives significantly shape public perception. However, a persistent issue remains: the portrayal of Black men in Western media often reflects deep-seated biases and double standards. These portrayals not only influence societal attitudes but also have tangible effects on the lives of Black individuals.
The Case of Daniel Penny and Jordan Neely
In May 2023, Daniel Penny, a 26-year-old white Marine veteran, fatally choked Jordan Neely, a 30-year-old unhoused Black man, on a New York City subway. Neely, who suffered from severe mental illness, was reportedly acting erratically but posed no physical threat. Despite this, Penny's actions led to Neely's death. In December 2024, Penny was acquitted of all charges, including second-degree manslaughter and criminally negligent homicide.
The media's portrayal of Penny was notably sympathetic. He was often depicted as a concerned citizen acting in self-defense, with significant attention given to his military background and intentions. Conversely, Neely's history of mental illness and homelessness was emphasized, subtly shifting the narrative to suggest culpability on his part. This dichotomy in portrayal underscores a broader issue: the tendency of Western media to humanize white perpetrators while dehumanizing Black victims.
The Leadership Narrative in Sports
In sports media, Black athletes often face a different set of standards compared to their white counterparts. A 2025 article from The Guardian highlighted how Black football players like Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, and Jude Bellingham are frequently overlooked or scrutinized when displaying leadership qualities. In contrast, white players such as Jordan Henderson receive widespread acclaim for similar behaviors. This disparity suggests an underlying bias in how leadership is perceived and celebrated in sports, often favoring traditional white masculinity.
Media's Empathetic Coverage of White Suspects
The case of Luigi Mangione, a 26-year-old white man accused of murdering United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, further exemplifies media bias. Reports delved into Mangione's personal struggles, including a back injury and social isolation, painting a picture of a troubled individual rather than focusing solely on the crime. This empathetic coverage contrasts sharply with how Black suspects are often portrayed, where personal backgrounds are overshadowed by negative stereotypes.
The Ralph Yarl Incident: A Demand for Worthiness
In April 2023, Ralph Yarl, a Black teenager in Kansas City, Missouri, was shot by 84-year-old homeowner Andrew Lester after mistakenly arriving at the wrong address. Yarl's survival and subsequent media coverage highlighted another troubling trend: the need to emphasize a Black victim's achievements to garner public sympathy. Yarl's involvement in the Science Olympiad and marching band were spotlighted, suggesting that his worthiness of empathy was tied to his accomplishments—a standard rarely applied to white victims.
Systemic Patterns in Media Representation
These cases are not isolated incidents but part of a systemic pattern in Western media. Studies have shown that African American crime suspects are often presented in more threatening contexts than white suspects, reinforcing harmful stereotypes. Such portrayals contribute to societal biases, influencing public opinion and, potentially, judicial outcomes.
Furthermore, media coverage often magnifies the mistakes of Black athletes while downplaying similar errors by white athletes. This disparity in scrutiny perpetuates a narrative that questions the competence and character of Black individuals in high-profile positions.
A Call for Equitable Representation
The media wields significant power in shaping narratives and public perception. Recognizing and addressing the double standards in the portrayal of Black men is crucial for fostering a more equitable society. It's imperative for media outlets to reflect on their reporting practices, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of race, are depicted with fairness and humanity.
By shedding light on these disparities, we take a step toward a media landscape that upholds justice and equality for all.
About the Creator
Mohammad Ashique
Curious mind. Creative writer. I share stories on trends, lifestyle, and culture — aiming to inform, inspire, or entertain. Let’s explore the world, one word at a time.
Keep reading
More stories from Mohammad Ashique and writers in The Swamp and other communities.
More Than 500 Dead in Iran Protests — U.S. Considers Military Options
Iran is facing one of its most intense periods of unrest in years as widespread protests continue across multiple cities, drawing global attention and growing concern. Human rights organizations and international observers report that more than 500 people may have been killed since demonstrations began, marking a devastating toll that has intensified diplomatic pressure on Tehran. As the situation deteriorates, the United States is openly debating possible responses, including military options, raising fears of further escalation in an already volatile region. A Nation in Turmoil The protests, which began amid economic hardship and political frustration, have evolved into a broader movement challenging government authority. Demonstrators have taken to the streets demanding accountability, improved living conditions, and greater personal freedoms. While the Iranian government has described the unrest as foreign-backed destabilization, protesters and activists portray it as a grassroots expression of public anger. Reports from inside Iran remain difficult to verify due to media restrictions and internet shutdowns. However, international human rights groups estimate that hundreds of civilians have died during clashes between security forces and demonstrators. Thousands more have reportedly been detained, adding to fears of widespread repression. The rising death toll has transformed what began as domestic unrest into an international crisis. Government Response and Crackdown Iranian authorities have responded forcefully, deploying security forces to suppress protests and restore order. Officials insist their actions are necessary to maintain national stability and protect public institutions. State media emphasizes incidents of violence and vandalism, framing the protests as a security threat rather than a political movement. Critics argue that the heavy-handed response has only fueled further anger. Images and testimonies shared by activists show security forces confronting unarmed civilians, intensifying global outrage. Calls for independent investigations have grown louder, though Iranian leadership has rejected external interference. International Reaction Grows As reports of rising casualties spread, international condemnation has increased. Western governments, including the United States, have expressed deep concern over the situation. Statements from U.S. officials emphasize support for the Iranian people’s right to peaceful protest while condemning the use of lethal force against civilians. The United Nations and several human rights organizations have urged restraint and called for accountability. Diplomatic efforts have so far yielded limited results, with Tehran dismissing many criticisms as politically motivated. U.S. Considers Military Options Amid mounting pressure, discussions within the United States have taken a sharper tone. While no formal decision has been announced, U.S. officials have acknowledged that “all options remain on the table” should the situation worsen. This language has sparked intense debate over what role, if any, military force should play in responding to Iran’s internal crisis. Supporters of a tougher stance argue that continued violence against civilians demands a strong response. They believe that clear consequences could deter further abuses and demonstrate international resolve. Others caution that military intervention could escalate the conflict, potentially destabilizing the entire Middle East. Historically, U.S.–Iran relations have been marked by distrust, sanctions, and limited diplomatic engagement. Any military action, even symbolic, would likely have far-reaching consequences beyond Iran’s borders. Risks of Escalation Analysts warn that increased U.S. involvement could trigger retaliation from Iran or its regional allies. The Middle East is already navigating multiple conflicts, and further escalation could disrupt global energy markets and threaten regional security. There is also concern that military threats may strengthen hardline factions within Iran, undermining internal reform movements. Critics argue that external pressure often allows governments to shift focus away from domestic grievances by framing unrest as foreign aggression. For this reason, many experts advocate for diplomatic pressure, targeted sanctions, and international monitoring rather than direct military involvement. Voices From the Iranian Diaspora Outside Iran, members of the Iranian diaspora have organized demonstrations and advocacy campaigns, urging global leaders to take action. These voices emphasize the human cost of the crisis, sharing stories of families affected by violence and detention. While opinions differ on the best course forward, there is widespread agreement on one point: the loss of life is unacceptable, and the international community cannot ignore the situation. A Critical Moment Ahead The unfolding crisis places Iran and the United States at a dangerous crossroads. With more than 500 deaths reportedly linked to the protests, the pressure for decisive action continues to build. At the same time, the risks associated with military involvement remain high. What happens next will depend on a combination of internal developments within Iran and the choices made by global powers. Whether the situation moves toward dialogue or deeper confrontation will shape not only Iran’s future but also the stability of the broader region. Conclusion The reported death toll from Iran’s protests represents more than statistics—it reflects a nation in distress and a world struggling to respond. As the U.S. considers its options, the challenge lies in balancing accountability with restraint. In moments like these, the consequences of action—and inaction—carry profound weight.
By Saboor Brohi 6 days ago in The Swamp
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.