Michael Bullerdick, a white male, has been named managing editor of Essence, prompting Danielle Wright to ask whether he can represent the interests and views of the magazine’s African-American, female audience. “Are you able to suggest topics that have been affecting the community for years? Can you reminisce or relate to the stories of historic Black women who overcame struggles and portray them accurately, and make suggestions to ensure that the story is told through a relatable voice? Are you able to manage pitches to ensure they won’t offend your African-American, woman audience?”
Essence Editor-in-Chief Constance White, however, told Richard Prince that Bullerdick “is responsible for production and operational workflow. He has no involvement in editorial content.”
Related: Prince examines white ownership and leadership of ethnic websites.
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