When the Hood Comes Off: Racism and Resistance in the Digital Age

This book examines how racism manifests online and highlights the antiracist tactics rising to oppose it. It combines rigorous research and engaging personal narrative to investigate the effects of online racism on communities of color and society.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2023
Publisher: University of California Press

This timely, comprehensive study delves into the pervasive manifestation of racism in the online realm, shedding light on the emerging antiracist strategies that strive to counteract it. Online communication serves as a revealing window into the world, exposing the insidious ways in which racism operates despite the façade of colorblindness. In his book, When the Hood Comes Off, Rob Eschmann skillfully combines rigorous research with engaging personal narratives to explore the profound impact of online racism on communities of color and society as a whole. Through a wealth of data, including interviews with students of Color across the country and comprehensive analyses of millions of social media posts spanning the past decade, Eschmann uncovers the intricate influence of online communication on face-to-face interactions.

One of the key insights of When the Hood Comes Off is the remarkable power of the internet as an organizing tool. Eschmann highlights how online platforms have become vital spaces for communities of color to mobilize, share information, and raise awareness about racial injustice. He demonstrates how digital technologies enable innovative everyday tools of antiracist resistance, such as social media campaigns, online petitions, and digital activism. These tools allow individuals to challenge racist narratives, amplify marginalized voices, and foster a sense of community among those fighting against discrimination.

Moreover, When the Hood Comes Off serves as a poignant wake-up call to the pervasive nature of online racism. Eschmann explores the deep-rooted historical and cultural factors that contribute to online hate speech and discrimination, and he challenges readers to confront their own biases and assumptions. He encourages individuals to examine the ways in which their online behavior perpetuates or challenges racist attitudes and to take proactive steps to promote diversity and inclusivity in their digital interactions.

In conclusion, When the Hood Comes Off is a groundbreaking work that sheds light on the complex dynamics of online racism and offers valuable insights into the emerging antiracist strategies that are shaping our digital world. By examining the influence of online communication on face-to-face interactions, Eschmann highlights the power of the internet as an organizing tool and encourages readers to take a proactive role in combating racism in their online and offline lives. This book is a must-read for anyone who seeks to understand the impact of technology on social justice and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Weight: 548g
Dimension: 158 x 236 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520379725