Journalist shares how misinformation and the press shaped 1906 Atlanta Race Massacre

Ann Hill Bond, an Atlanta-based journalist and chair of the Fulton County Remembrance Coalition wants to make sure the story of the 1906 Atlanta Race Massacre is not forgotten.

This week marks 118 years since the massacre. From Sept. 22 to Sept. 24, 1906, thousands of white residents filled downtown Atlanta, destroying homes and businesses in the city’s Black neighborhoods. At least 25 Black Atlantans were killed and thousands of others were forced to flee their homes and the city. Only two people from a white mob were convicted.

On Monday’s edition of “Closer Look,” Hill Bond told show host Rose Scott that the story about the massacre must be told in truth and explained how misinformation and the press played a role in escalating racial terror, prompting the massacre. Hill Bond also talked about the importance of honoring and giving space for the collective story to be told. She shared details about a weeklong series of events happening this week to remember the massacre.