A Film That Could Fix Our Relationship With the Internet
A Film That Could Fix Our Relationship With the Internet
A Film That Could Fix Our Relationship With the Internet
Shirley Li
September, 9, 2024
Summary
Filmmaker Jazmin Jones grew up believing Mavis Beacon, the face of Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing, was a real person. Mavis, a Black woman depicted as approachable and authoritative, helped make typing accessible and less intimidating. She became an influential figure, especially for Black consumers, and was admired as a rare Black female role model in the tech space. Despite being an avatar created by The Software Toolworks, Mavis was perceived as a celebrity, with children and educators alike believing she was a real person. Her impact was so significant that many sought in-person appearances and engagements.
Reference
Li, S. (2024, September 9). A film that could fix our relationship with the internet. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/archive/2024/09/seeking-mavis-beacon-documentary-interview/679741/