Racism and Exploitation in Video Industry

Sep 14, 2024

Lecture Notes: Investigating Racism and Exploitation in China-Africa Video Industry

Introduction

  • Speaker: Renako Salina, a journalist based in London, previously lived in China.
  • Topic: Investigation into a racist video made in China exploiting African children.

Video Context

  • Released: February 2020 on Chinese social media "Jokes About Black People Club".
  • Content: African kids chanting "I’m a black monster"; derogatory term "haigui" used.
  • Impact:
    • 4000+ likes, sparked global debate.
    • Raised questions about anti-black racism in China.

Personal Experience in China

  • Renako’s Background: Studied and worked in Beijing, experienced racism firsthand.
  • Response: Created "Black Liberty China", an online platform to discuss racism.

Wadamaya's Involvement

  • Background: Ghanaian YouTuber, lived in China, speaks Chinese.
  • Action: Published denouncement of the video using his platform.
  • Perspective: Emphasized need to address the industry exploiting Africans.

The Video Industry

  • Nature: Personalized videos featuring Africans for greetings and occasions.
  • Market: Popular in China, selling for $10-$70; often exploitative and racist.
  • Content: Ranges from innocent greetings to racial stereotypes and sexualized performances.

Investigation

  • Team: Renako and colleague Alion Le Roy.
  • Task: Uncover origin and creators of the "Low IQ video".
  • Process:
    • Digital analysis of social media.
    • Identified Malawi as possible filming location.
    • Used geolocation to pinpoint specific village.

On the Ground Investigation in Malawi

  • Local Insight: Collaboration with Henry Muhango, an investigative reporter.
  • Findings:
    • Video operations masqueraded as "Chinese classes".
    • Kids paid minimally, affecting school attendance.

Uncovering the Perpetrators

  • Main Suspect: "Susu" aka Lu Ke, a Chinese national in Malawi.
  • Operation: Used undercover techniques to confirm identity and activities.

Broader Implications

  • China-Africa Relations:
    • Complex interplay of cultural exchange and exploitation.
    • Role of economic aid from China and perceptions in Africa.

Community Reaction

  • Local Perspectives: Mixed views on Chinese presence; concerns over employment and cultural impact.
  • Parental Awareness: Limited understanding of video exploitation.

Conclusion

  • Outcome: Exposed the exploitation but recognized ongoing industry issues.
  • Call to Action: Highlighted need for broader awareness and accountability.

These notes summarize the lecture and provide an overview of the issues surrounding the creation and proliferation of exploitative videos involving African children aimed at Chinese audiences. The investigation underscores the intersection of racism, exploitation, and global digital commerce.