YouTube content creators are boldly exposing the app’s troubling practices, particularly the process known as shadow banning. So, what exactly is shadow banning? It’s when a user’s content is made less visible or even invisible to others without notification, while the user can still access their account. This tactic severely limits reach, engagement, and visibility in search results. Can a YouTuber block someone from accessing their content? Absolutely. A YouTuber can make their videos private or unlisted, effectively cutting off access. They can also choose to make videos public but impose restrictions based on age or location. While blocking someone on YouTube doesn’t stop them from watching the content, it does prevent interaction through comments and channel engagement. Many creators assert that YouTube has targeted them specifically due to their influence on Black culture. Is it possible that YouTube’s algorithms are designed to suppress DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) content? It certainly appears that the system is rigged to enforce compliance among creators. YouTube’s lack of transparency about these practices and their algorithms is unacceptable; it marginalizes entire communities. ACE, a prominent YouTuber, has openly expressed his frustrations with the platform and is adamant that he is being “blackballed.” With over half a million subscribers, ACE has filed numerous complaints against the media giant for unjustly punishing creators through demonetization or strikes on their channels. Shadow banning isn’t just a random occurrence; it is used as a form of punishment for including shadow-banned videos in playlists or for a variety of other reasons. ACE has also highlighted the disparities in how algorithms treat white creators versus Black creators when assessing demographics. These actions are detrimental to the growth and earnings of content creators, essentially trapping them in a continuous cycle of marginalization.
