Media Blog #2: The Coverage of the Boston Marathon Bombing

    On April 15th, 2013, the Boston Marathon took place, but it met a brutal end. At the finish line, two bombs were placed. When they detonated, they killed 3 people and wounded 144. One of the first reactions was panic. The bombers got exactly what they wanted: psychological terror among the people. Many posts, assumptions, and theories were made about who committed the crime and why they did it. There was an overwhelming fear cast upon the American people. There were news casts that seemed to scream "CHAOS, CHAOS, CHAOS." But there was another reaction as well, one of community and strength.

     As spoken here by Steve Colbert on the Colbert Report, there was no denying that the events that took place on April 15th were horrific, and terrifying. However, these events also shed light on a beautiful aspect of the American people that is sometimes forgotten. Not only is Boston tough, but the whole of America is capable of banding together, and pressing on through the thickest. As mentioned in the video, runners who had already completed the marathon ran an extra 2 miles to a hospital nearby to donate blood. Around the families of victims, candle light vigils were held, and those victims will never be forgotten. 

The internet had a great deal to do with the spread of fear, as well as the spread of strength as this photo of Mr. Rogers began popping up on feeds everywhere. As people began to pay more attention to the volunteers, a greater sense of community was developed.

Many celebrities (such as Steve Colbert and Amy Poehler) spoke about the bombing, but through the sullen clouds, we found hope.

 There was the time for sadness. But now is the time for strength. Our hearts are with you, Boston. 

   

A top comment from another, lower-quality version of the Colbert video.