A&E Changes the Title of Its Upcoming KKK Docuseries Following Social Media Backlash

The title of an A&E docuseries has been changed from 'KKK Generation' to 'Escaping the KKK: A Documentary Series Exposing Hate in America.'

2009 KKK march in Tennessee.
Getty

2009 KKK march in Tennessee.

2009 KKK march in Tennessee.

Keep up the good work, internet.

Shortly after A&E announced its upcoming documentary series KKK Generation, social media went in on the network, accusing it of normalizing racism and providing a platform for a hate group. A&E's general manager Rob Sharenow, told the New York Times that the series was not intended spread a message of bigotry, and that the cable channel’s only political agenda is to “stand against hate.” But in case there was any doubt, A&E officials have decided to change the docuseries’ title to Escaping the KKK: A Documentary Series Exposing Hate in America.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, A&E has also partnered with civil rights organizations, including Color of Change and the Anti-Defamation League, on the eight-part special.

"After reviewing the promotions and episodes and participating in substantive conversations with A&E executives, we are pleased to see that the network is taking seriously concerns that the show—newly titled Escaping the KKK: A Documentary Series Exposing Hate in America—required important additional components, such as specific in-show educational context and content and a post-show town hall, as we both want to work together to ensure that it did not normalize and humanize racism and white supremacy,” Color of Change executive director Rashad Robinson said. “Black communities know all too well how perpetuating stereotypes and hateful rhetoric can empower a racist and violent agenda. At Color of Change, we recognize the power of TV and media images, and our work is rooted in creating a less harmful and hostile world for black people and all people. We look forward to seeing updated content that adds further context to the episodes and working closely with A&E on programming that articulates the network's intention of reversing racial hatred and violence.”

Escaping the KKK will tell the stories of individuals with personal links to the Ku Klux Klan and their efforts to leave that world behind. According to a statement by A&E, the series will pull “back the curtain on the organization” and “show its effects on American families.” It will air 10 p.m. ET, Tuesday, Jan. 10 on A&E.

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