TikTok has apologized to Black creators after being accused of censorship. Earlier this month, Black creators on the app started the #ImBlackMovement hashtag, saying the app was removing and banning their content calling out police brutality. At the height of the protests, the app is still being accused of censorship: videos posted under the hashtags #BlackLivesMatter and #GeorgeFloyd on the platform were allegedly receiving zero views, which TikTok claims was due to “technical difficulties.” Now the app has laid out a plan of action to address the recent criticism that they have been suppressing Black creators. They plan to launch a “creator diversity council” aimed at identifying and uplifting voices that are driving culture, creativity, and important discussions on the platform. Acknowledging they “have work to do to regain and repair that trust,” in their apology, TikTok pledged millions to non-profits that fight racial injustice. (The Verge, BuzzFeed News)
