How Black cartographers put racism on the map of America

Mapping is one way African Americans fight for equality and help each other navigate a racially hostile landscape.

By: Derek H. Alderman, University of Tennessee and Joshua F.J. Inwood, Penn State, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 8, 2026

Words: 1,163

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Derek H. Alderman, University of Tennessee and Joshua F.J. Inwood, Penn State

How can maps fight racism and inequality?

The work of the Black Panther Party, a 1960s- and 1970s-era Black political group featured in a new movie and a documentary, helps illustrate how cartography – the practice of making and using maps – can illuminate injustice.

As these films show, the Black Panthers focused on African American empowerment and

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