Combating Mass Surveillance and Protecting Marginalized Communities

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In a powerful article published on The Conversation, experts Brittany Friedman and Raquel Delerme from the University of Southern California have shed light on the alarming trend of mass surveillance being weaponized against people of color and immigrants, particularly under the Trump administration. As they warn, the groundwork is being laid for a wave of spying and social control targeting these vulnerable communities.

The authors’ insights are crucial for Newspot Nigeria and its readers, as they underscore the grave implications of unchecked mass surveillance on marginalized populations.

By deploying tactics such as creating moral panics around crime and immigration, the Trump administration has set the stage for justifying invasive surveillance measures that disproportionately impact Black, Latino, and immigrant communities.

As Friedman and Delerme eloquently state, “History shows that in the U.S. moral panics are most likely to target Latino, Indigenous and Black communities as a precursor to surveillance and subjugation.” This pattern, rooted in centuries of systemic racism and oppression, has manifested in the disproportionate arrest and incarceration rates of these communities, even affecting children.

The authors’ analysis of police fusion centers and the revival of Guantanamo-style “black sites” further underscores the alarming scope of the threat. These clandestine surveillance networks and detention facilities, often operating under the guise of national security, have been used to target and disappear individuals from marginalized groups, violating their fundamental rights and freedoms.

Newspot Nigeria recognizes the critical importance of raising awareness about these issues and mobilizing collective action to combat the expansion of mass surveillance. By amplifying the voices of Friedman and Delerme, and drawing attention to the historical context and contemporary realities they outline, we can empower our readers to become active participants in the fight for justice and civil liberties.

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As the authors conclude, the shadows of mass surveillance loom large, and the struggle against it requires vigilance and a commitment to dismantling oppressive systems. Newspot Nigeria stands in solidarity with those affected and calls upon our readers to join us in this vital endeavor, ensuring that the fundamental rights and freedoms of all people are protected, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or immigration status.

In addition, Newspot Nigeria urges our government and policymakers to take immediate action to address the concerning trends highlighted in this article. We must demand greater transparency, accountability, and oversight over surveillance programs, particularly those that target marginalized communities. Furthermore, we call for the implementation of robust safeguards and legal protections to prevent the misuse of surveillance technologies and the erosion of civil liberties.

By taking a strong stance and amplifying the voices of those fighting against mass surveillance, Newspot Nigeria aims to contribute to a broader movement for social justice and equality. Together, we can work to dismantle the systems of oppression that have long plagued our society and build a future where everyone, regardless of their background, is treated with dignity and respect.

Reference:

Friedman, B., & Delerme, R. (2025) https://theconversation.com/we-study-mass-surveillance-for-social-control-and-we-see-trump-laying-the-groundwork-to-contain-people-of-color-and-immigrants-221073