Gary Webb, a journalist, reflected on the events that led to the downfall of his career two years before his tragic suicide. Despite early successes, he realized that he hadn’t written anything significant until his groundbreaking report, “Dark Alliance,” linking crack cocaine proliferation in black Los Angeles neighborhoods to Nicaragua’s Contra Rebels.
Comedy back then kept politicians in check..
Comedy changed w/ cancel culture and late night “comedy” is govt propaganda now🤢 pic.twitter.com/vhRR8SEDvM— Rush Rand (@RushRand) June 7, 2024
The publication of “Dark Alliance” in August 1996 garnered immense attention, especially with the support of black talk radio and innovative internet use by the San Jose Mercury News. However, Webb faced relentless attacks from fellow journalists rather than the CIA, leading to his editor retracting the story and Webb’s subsequent resignation.
The CIA indirectly benefited from the journalist mob’s attacks, providing balanced stories to fuel the backlash against Webb. This episode marked the beginning of a trend where controversial narratives were challenged more efficiently, impacting journalists like Webb.
In today’s landscape, discrediting an opponent requires less effort, with one determined journalist-activist capable of significant impact. The rise of dox-posse reporting emphasizes naming individuals behind controversial statements, assuming anonymity implies guilt.
Whistleblower Gary Webb..#NeverForget pic.twitter.com/02y8fWOYbf
— Cathy Harris (@CathyHarris) April 23, 2024
A case in point is Peachy Keenan’s experience, who faced repercussions for supporting a political candidate online, showcasing how expressing dissenting views can lead to real-world consequences.
Similarly, Lomez, an internet commentator, lost anonymity due to a journalist’s investigation, highlighting the risks of being publicly identified and the subsequent media attention.
Jason Wilson’s article on Lomez resulted in unintended consequences, boosting Lomez’s profile and book sales, showcasing how media controversies can backfire.
The Guardian’s approach to dox-posé journalism was evident in Wilson’s meticulous investigation, showcasing a pattern of revealing personal details to create controversy and incite social consequences.
Kevin Dolan’s experience of being doxed led to his dismissal from his job, prompting him to launch EXIT, a community-based network offering entrepreneurial opportunities and support to those impacted by cancel culture.
EXIT’s success lies in providing alternatives to conventional employment, empowering individuals to monetize their skills and experiences outside traditional frameworks.
Dolan’s initiative reflects a broader trend of individuals seeking independence from restrictive norms and leveraging online platforms to build supportive communities.
Dark Alliance The CIA, the Contras, and the Crack Cocaine Explosion Gary Webb Interview 1998 pic.twitter.com/NneA4ypheG
— Roman Empire (@ThuleSocieties) May 3, 2024
The ultimate goal of EXIT and similar endeavors is to counteract cancel culture’s stifling effects by promoting constructive dialogue and offering tangible solutions for those affected.
In essence, the narrative underscores the power of resilience and innovation in navigating the challenges posed by modern media dynamics and societal pressures.
Key points:
i. The article delves into the story of journalist Gary Webb, highlighting his rise and subsequent downfall after publishing the “Dark Alliance” series linking crack cocaine in Los Angeles to Nicaragua’s Contra Rebels.
ii. Webb’s investigation gained national attention through alternative channels like black talk radio and early internet platforms, bypassing traditional media validation.
iii. He faced fierce backlash from fellow journalists who attempted to discredit his research, ultimately leading to his editor issuing an apology and Webb resigning.
iv. The article discusses how the CIA indirectly fueled the media attacks on Webb, showcasing the increasing efficiency of modern-day journalism in discrediting individuals.
v. It also explores the impact of online doxing and cancel culture, featuring personal accounts of individuals like Peachy Keenan and Kevin Dolan and their experiences with online attacks and subsequent career shifts.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
