A multiyear, $100 million fund that is dedicated to “amplify” the voices of black creators and artists on its platform is announced by YouTube last Thursday.
CEO Susan Wojcicki wrote in a blog post, “At YouTube, we believe Black lives matter and we all need to do more to dismantle systemic racism. We’re committed to doing better as a platform to center and amplify Black voices and perspectives.”
Wojcicki announced that this Saturday, June 13, YouTube will host a Livestream fundraising event to kick the initiative off produced by YouTube Originals, called “Bear Witness, Take Action.” It will be hosted by Common and Keke Palmer. According to Variety, it will be structured with roundtable discussions and panels, along with powerful live moments, musical tributes, and more. The event begins Saturday, June 13, at 6 pm ET / 3 pm PT.
Moderators include Roland S. Martin, Jemele Hill and Soledad O’Brien, as performances include Trey Songz, John Legend, and more. Viewers can expect to see Kimberly N. Foster, Alicia Garza, Roxane Gay, Eddie Glaude, Kimberly Jones, Jouelzy, MN FATS, Prince EA, Rashad Robinson, and more as panelists.
All throughout the month of June, YouTube’s Spotlight channel will highlight racial justice issues, promote educational videos, and protest coverage and include the latest perspectives from the Black community on YouTube.
“I support the Black Lives Matter movement and I think it’s imperative that we help amplify Black voices and continue the conversation about meaningful change and racial justice,” said Susanne Daniels, YouTube’s global head of original content. “YouTube has a unique ability to unite creators, artists, and powerful voices within the Black community to encourage the world to stand up and speak out for racial justice.”
“Bear Witness, Take Action” is produced by LeBron James’ SpringHill Entertainment, Fly on the Wall and Byron Phillps. Reginald Hudlin serves as executive producer and showrunner.
