Malkia Cyril facts for kids

Malkia Amala Devich-Cyril (born May 2, 1974) is a poet and activist. They are well-known for their work to make the internet fair for everyone. This effort is called Net Neutrality. Malkia Cyril believes that protecting Net Neutrality is about "media justice." This means making sure everyone, especially communities that haven't always had a voice, can share their stories and ideas fairly in the media. They lead the Center for Media Justice and helped start the Media Action Grassroots Network.

Malkia Cyril often writes about how media can be fair and helpful for everyone. Their articles appear in national publications like Politico and the Huffington Post. They also write poetry and short stories. These creative works have been published in books such as Afrekete: An Anthology of Black Lesbian Writing and Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Café.

Malkia Cyril grew up in Bedford-Stuyvesant, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, New York. They learned to read at the Liberation Bookstore in Harlem. Malkia Cyril has said that growing up in a community that worked for social change was a great experience.

What is Net Neutrality?

Net Neutrality is the idea that all internet traffic should be treated equally. This means internet service providers (like your home internet company) should not block or slow down certain websites or apps. They also should not charge extra money for faster access to some content. Think of the internet like a public road. Net Neutrality ensures that all cars (data) can travel on it at the same speed, no matter where they are going.

Working for Media Justice

Malkia Cyril believes that Net Neutrality is a key part of "media justice." Media justice means that all people should have a fair chance to create and share their own media. It also means that media should represent all communities fairly. Malkia Cyril works to make sure that people from different backgrounds have a voice online and in the news.

Recognitions and Training

Malkia Cyril has been recognized for their important work. They have been a:

• Rockwood Leadership Institute Fellow: This means they were chosen for a special program to develop leaders who work for social change.
• The Root 100: This is a list of the 100 most influential African Americans.