Current PhD Students

Miya Treadwell

Thesis Title:

Art as Activism: Ava DuVernay, Black Narratives, and Netflix

Supervisor:

Dr JT Welsch

Description:

My research focuses on the intersection of streaming platforms, social activism, and Black narratives by exploring Netflix's role in redefining media consumption in the digital age. The growth of Netflix's original media production and distribution has also seen the company invest in a considerable amount of Black content creation. Netflix’s Strong Black Lead initiative highlights this strategic venture and commitment to Black representation. Using the platform’s collaborative relationship with director Ava DuVernay as a case study, my thesis analyses her recent projects (Selma, 13TH, When They See Us, Colin in Black & White) as explorations of social justice issues through a specific Black/feminine/activist lens and interrogates Netflix’s corporate rationale in supporting this authorship.

I hold a B.A. in Journalism and Spanish Literature from the University of Maryland and a M.A. in Film and Literature from the University of York.