After the Killing of Atatiana Jefferson: Black Stakeholder Experiences Within a Municipal Listening Structure

Abstract

Starting with a public relations pioneer’s maxim to “listen to stakeholders,” many contemporary scholars have emphasized listening as the key to the inclusion of marginalized communities. Based on 25 in-depth interviews including 19 Black residents of Fort Worth, this study amplifies the voices of Black community members after the killing of Atatiana Jefferson in her home by a White police officer. Their perceptions of systemic racism within the city’s listening processes and their recognition of pseudo-listening and non-action provide an understanding of and suggestions for how the city government can facilitate equitable engagement.

Keywords

Black Lives Matter racism public relations listening civic participation/engagement

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