I’ve been thinking about something I hear often — not just from authors, but from content creators, entrepreneurs, and even people using dating apps. The question is this:

Does the algorithm bury posts from people of color?

I’m not a computer genius. I don’t write code, I don’t work in Silicon Valley, and I’m not here to break down complex equations. But I am curious. And my curiosity wonders: if I’m an author of color and I post my work at the exact same time as an author who is not of color, is their post more likely to be seen than mine — simply because of who they are and the color of our skin?

From what I’ve read, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no. But there is evidence that bias exists in these systems.

What We Know About Algorithmic Bias

In 2020, TikTok admitted to suppressing certain videos. The company claimed it was to prevent bullying, but Black creators noticed that their content was being removed or shown to fewer people without explanation.

A Carnegie Mellon University study found that automated ad systems showed fewer high-paying job ads to women and people of color, even though the systems were supposed to be neutral.

Researchers have documented that algorithms reflect the same inequalities we see in the real world, because they’re trained on real-world data — and that data often underrepresents people of color.

How This Impacts Authors of Color

Algorithms boost what’s already getting clicks, likes, and comments. If a post from an author of color gets less visibility for any reason, the system may amplify that gap. Fewer people see it, fewer people engage, and the cycle continues.

That means authors of color often have to work harder just to be seen. It’s not always about the quality of the content — sometimes it’s about bias baked into the system.

Breaking the Cycle

So what can we do?

Build community outside the algorithm. Don’t rely only on social media. Use book clubs, newsletters, and podcasts where your voice can’t be silenced by code.

Collaborate with other authors of color. Share each other’s work, cross-promote, and lift each other up.

Diversify your platforms. Don’t depend on one app to deliver your visibility. Spread your presence across multiple spaces.

Keep showing up. The algorithm rewards persistence. Consistency can make a difference, even when it feels invisible.

My Takeaway

Algorithms aren’t neutral. They reflect the same biases we fight in the real world. And while we can’t rewrite the code, we can control how we show up.

If you’re an author of color, your voice matters — even when it feels buried. Keep showing up, keep building, and keep creating spaces where your work can thrive beyond the algorithm.

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