Forms of technology and media have taken over our lives in many situations including education, politics, personal lives and careers. As beneficial as it may be, there are certain negative impacts. In Document 10.3 “Aguas Blancas Masacre”, 17 peasants were brutally killed by Guerrero police officers while on their way to a demonstration. The state was able to manipulate evidence and the public by using photographs and the opposing sides reputation. They were able to plant various weapons on the dead and alive showcasing the officers acted in self defence. On top of this, the belief that the “radical peasant group” wanted to overthrow government further supported what was being depicted. With a thorough investigation, media clips and footage were able to prove the police shot at unarmed men and faked evidence. The new era of digital technology is so powerful but can be mishandled leading to detrimental consequences. I think people can’t always trust the things shown to us because there is a chance of foul play. Checking multiple resources, asking questions and withholding preconceived notions/bias are temporary solutions but how far can that go.
Moving on, Document 10.2 “Revolutionary Womens’ Law” showcased the demands of the EZLN for women’s rights. While I was reading it, they seemed so straightforward and I was shocked that people didn’t have access to simple things such as “the right to choose their partner: no forced marriage”, “not be beaten or physically mistreated by their family mem- bers or by strangers”, rights to education and working, etc. Speaking from a place of privilege, I haven’t had to worry about the following or even have basic rights taken away from me. There are a lot of situations where women face horrible issues and have to fight for something that should already be guaranteed.
Discussion Question:
Can you think of other examples of the misuse of evidence and media during tragedies?
Disadvantages of modern day technology?