We need to talk about limiting viral effects of Black pain

Graphic Images no longer carry any reverence

There are memories of when images that captured powerful moments in history gripped me as a young girl, enthusiastically turning pages of newsmagazines before they evolved into the online portals of disarray that are currently invading the web.

When John Lennon was shot and killed in Manhattan in December 1980, the cover of Time magazine had the headline that took my breath away.

When the Music Died.

And just like that, I was swept by the current of overwhelming curiosity for someone I barely knew, but seemed worth getting to know, even if it was through what he left behind. My respect grew with each page, as the dignified imagery paid homage to a life well spent, and showcased those who were publicly celebrating what had been brutally stolen.

Fast forward decades later, and if Lennon, or any member of The Beatles had met their end in a violent fashion, there would be the instant swirling of conspiracy theories, followed by the poison of doctored YouTube videos that have been uploaded by…