A growing chorus on TikTok is using the platform to document and challenge everyday experiences with racism, prompting conversations about its pervasive nature. The account @blackmenaces, run by a group of Brigham Young University students, is at the forefront of this movement, utilizing short-form video to confront biases and spark dialogue.
The account’s recent post, featuring the phrase “Don’t shoot the messenger,” underscores a central tenet of their approach: to simply reflect the realities of racism as they encounter them. This isn’t about creating conflict, but about holding a mirror up to society and forcing uncomfortable, yet necessary, self-reflection. The TikTok, accompanied by the original sound created by Blackmenaces, has resonated with viewers, garnering 46 likes as of February 17, 2026.
@blackmenaces initially gained prominence in 2022 by posing direct questions to students on campus, such as “Is the Confederate flag racist?” and “Does reverse racism exist?” As reported by KUER 90.1, these videos quickly amassed a substantial following, now exceeding half a million users. The account’s growth reflects a broader appetite for discussions surrounding race and identity, particularly within predominantly white institutions.
The impetus behind @blackmenaces stems from the lived experiences of its creators. Sebastian Stewart-Johnson, one of the founding members, described feeling isolated as one of the few Black students at BYU. According to Stewart-Johnson, “In most spaces, I’m the only Black student or the only person of color in the whole room.” This lack of diversity, he argues, allows biases to go unchecked, contributing to a sense of ostracization.
The account’s impact extends beyond the BYU campus. In October 2025, @blackmenaces documented a confrontation with individuals espousing racist viewpoints at a Turning Point USA (TPUSA) rally. The TikTok video highlights the challenges of engaging with and challenging prejudiced ideologies in public spaces. The account consistently aims to document these interactions, providing a platform for counter-narratives.
The demographic context further underscores the significance of @blackmenaces’ work. BYU, with a student body of approximately 30,000, has a Black student population of less than 1%. Similarly, Provo, Utah, the city where BYU is located, is only 1.1% African American, slightly behind the statewide average. This stark underrepresentation amplifies the importance of platforms like @blackmenaces in providing visibility and voice to marginalized communities.
The TikTok account isn’t simply about identifying problems; it’s about provoking change. Stewart-Johnson expressed hope that the growing following will translate into tangible improvements within the university. The account’s strategy of directly addressing difficult questions and documenting real-life experiences is designed to challenge the status quo and foster a more inclusive environment.
The “Don’t shoot the messenger” sentiment is a crucial element of this approach. By framing their content as a reflection of existing realities, rather than an accusation, @blackmenaces aims to encourage dialogue and understanding. The account’s continued growth suggests a willingness among a broad audience to engage with these challenging conversations.
Looking ahead, the sustained impact of @blackmenaces will likely depend on its ability to maintain its authenticity and continue to spark meaningful dialogue. The account’s success demonstrates the power of social media as a tool for social commentary and advocacy, particularly among younger generations. The ongoing conversation surrounding race and identity, amplified by platforms like TikTok, will undoubtedly continue to shape the landscape of higher education and beyond.
What are your thoughts on the role of social media in addressing issues of race and identity? Share your perspective in the comments below.
