The Push for Renaming

African scientists are advocating for a change in the virus's name to mitigate the potential for discrimination and stigma associated with its current title. The implications of this name are particularly concerning for African communities, including the CHOSSA group. When news of the virus’s spread in the West broke, many Black individuals, including myself, felt a sense of unease.

What Media Outlets Aren't Telling You

It’s perplexing why many media outlets fail to convey the full story surrounding the renaming of the virus. A significant number of non-Black individuals seem puzzled by the idea of a name change, likely because they lack crucial context.

Here’s the unvarnished truth: historically, Black individuals have been compared to monkeys. Given that the virus was previously linked to Africa and is now appearing in Europe and the U.S., there are legitimate concerns that some racist individuals may exploit this situation to justify discrimination against Black people.

Isn't it interesting how few are willing to openly discuss this? Who are they trying to protect? I've observed medical professionals debating the renaming without addressing this pivotal issue. Mainstream media also seems to sidestep the deeper implications of why a name change is necessary. Their reluctance to confront the reality of how certain individuals may react speaks volumes.

Cruelty and Racism in Historical Context

Does anyone recall the treatment of Africans residing in China during the recent pandemic? Many Black individuals do, and it appears African scientists are also acutely aware. Africans faced ejection from their homes, denied shelter in hotels, and barred from restaurants and public spaces, despite the pandemic's origins having nothing to do with Africa.

We are acutely aware that certain individuals in the West would relish an opportunity to mistreat all people of African descent, similar to what occurred in China. The current monkeypox outbreak, although not traced to Africa, could provoke similar reactions here.

Why should we underestimate the potential for such responses from White Americans? Historical precedents reveal that they have committed far worse acts with far less provocation. The legacy of slavery, colonization, Jim Crow laws, and even the display of Black individuals in human zoos serve as reminders of this troubling history.

Media Responsibility and Misinformation

Moreover, it’s concerning that media outlets have showcased images of Black individuals infected with monkeypox while predominantly White individuals make up the current cases. This selective portrayal raises further questions about the motivations behind these decisions. The media's portrayal has been careless, potentially harmful, and misleading, especially in today's charged racial climate.