For centuries, people have always found ways to push agendas in society, typically through either forceful invasion and violence or thoughtful advocacy for societal change. History has shown that while aggression and force can temporarily alter societal structures, they rarely lead to lasting harmony among people. The more gradual route of creating genuine agreement and collaboration on ideas and beliefs has proven far more effective in creating lasting positive change. This method is known as activism. Activism is defined as the efforts to promote, impede, direct, or intervene in social, political, economic, or environmental reform to make changes in society for the greater good. The United States, a nation in constant flux, has been shaped significantly by those who feel compelled to become activists or simply speak out about their beliefs. These individuals play a crucial role in the ongoing evolution of our country.
In the new age of media, activism has not only grown but flourished. Social media platforms such as Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Facebook have revolutionized the landscape of activism. These platforms enable activists to reach wider audiences, mobilize supporters quickly, and create powerful, engaging content that resonates on a global scale. As a result, digital activism has become a powerful force in shaping public discourse and driving societal change.
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Successful Digital Movements
Digital activism has revolutionized how social, political, and environmental movements gain traction and achieve their objectives. Many of the most successful movements began with a simple idea and a hashtag, evolving into powerful forces for change. The #MeToo movement, which gained a lot of momentum in 2017, is a prime example. It empowered countless women and men to share their experiences with sexual harassment and assault, bringing widespread attention to these issues. The movement gained recognition following news reports exposing sexual abuse by American film producer Harvey Weinstein. Although the phrase “Me Too” had been around for over a decade, a tweet by actress Alyssa Milano ignited the social movement that uncovered disturbing workplace truths and amplified the voices of survivors. This digital uprising not only raised awareness but also led to tangible changes, including legal reforms and shifts in corporate policies, which demonstrated the transformative power of online activism.
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The Children Around the World Continue to Ask the question
The Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement originated in 2013 following the acquittal of George Zimmerman in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin. It gained further momentum in 2014 after the deaths of Michael Brown in Missouri and Eric Garner in New York. However, it was in 2020, after the tragic killings of Ahmaud Arbery and George Floyd, that BLM captured global attention on an unprecedented scale. Hashtags like #BlackLivesMatter, #SayHerName (highlighting the case of Breonna Taylor), and #DefundThePolice became powerful tools for spreading awareness, organizing protests, and demanding justice. The BLM movement has profoundly influenced public opinion worldwide, calling for important discussions on police reform and systemic racism. And although the images and videos shared online were painful to watch in 2020, they illuminated the harsh realities of being Black in America. The movement has motivated individuals to continue the fight against racial injustice, a struggle that has spanned over 400 years. Through digital activism, BLM has harnessed the power of social media to rally support and drive meaningful change worldwide.
Lastly, the #IceBucketChallenge of 2014 became a global phenomenon and one of the earliest examples of viral digital activism. Created by Anthony Senerchia, Pete Frates, and Pat Quinn, three young men living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), the campaign aimed to raise awareness and funds for ALS research. Supporters would pour a bucket of ice water over their heads, upload the video to social media, and challenge others to do the same or donate to ALS research. The challenge quickly became popular, capturing the attention of millions worldwide. What started as a simple activity turned into a powerful fundraising tool, ultimately raising over $115 million for the ALS Association and significantly increasing awareness of the disease. The #IceBucketChallenge demonstrated the incredible potential of social media to mobilize support for a cause and achieve substantial real-world impact.
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This Generations Changemakers
In today’s era, a shared dedication to pivotal issues like racial equality, gender parity, LGBTQ+ rights, climate action, and education reform unites activists. These passionate individuals advocate for change and inspire others to join their noble causes. Their efforts amplify voices and propel progress toward a more equitable world. Among the noteworthy activists of our time are luminaries like Yara Shahidi, Amanda Gorman, and Tiana Day.
Shahidi, renowned for her starring role in ‘Grown-ish’, is also a passionate advocate for educational and voting rights. Through her innovative platform, “Eighteen x 18,” she encourages youth participation in politics while championing diversity and inclusivity in media and education.
Amanda Gorman, a beacon of social justice and poetry, captivated global audiences as the youngest inaugural poet in US history. Her stirring address at the 2021 Presidential Inauguration resonated deeply, focusing on topics of oppression, marginalization, and feminism.
Tiana Day, a tireless activist from the Bay Area, has made significant strides within the Black Lives Matter movement. Founding the non-profit organization “Youth Advocates For Change,” she empowers young leaders to champion social justice causes. Notably, Day orchestrated a historic BLM protest on the Golden Gate Bridge, drawing in thousands of empowered individuals, in response to the wave of police brutality against Black communities.
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The Future of Digital Activism
As social media has been an important part of our world today, it only makes sense that it’ll continue to greatly influence and revolutionize activism. It gives people a platform to express their beliefs to a wider audience, rather than just verbally with those around them. As information and movements spread, it allows for a greater chance of making change, as it reaches more people. Today, social media users post and share content to give their followers a better understanding of what they care about, and that allows people to stay connected. Living in the digital age grants people easier access to becoming an activist for causes they support and issues they believe in. The few campaigns I mentioned above, are testaments to the power of a hashtag. By using the right, catchy hashtag, it’s easier for activists to locate the content that matters to them and involve social media users in movements and protests.
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Conclusion
In our modern era, social media has emerged as a crucial tool in shaping and propelling activism forward. It provides individuals with a powerful platform to express their beliefs and advocate for causes. As information and movements spread rapidly across digital platforms, the potential for effecting meaningful change expands, reaching a vast and diverse audience. As digital media continues to evolve, its influence on activism will undoubtedly grow, revolutionizing the way we engage with and advocate for the issues that matter most.
Click here to read The Hollywood Insider’s CEO Pritan Ambroase’s love letter to Cinema, TV and Media. An excerpt from the love letter: The Hollywood Insider’s CEO/editor-in-chief Pritan Ambroase affirms, “We have the space and time for all your stories, no matter who/what/where you are. Media/Cinema/TV have a responsibility to better the world and The Hollywood Insider will continue to do so. Talent, diversity and authenticity matter in Cinema/TV, media and storytelling. In fact, I reckon that we should announce “talent-diversity-authenticity-storytelling-Cinema-Oscars-Academy-Awards” as synonyms of each other. We show respect to talent and stories regardless of their skin color, race, gender, sexuality, religion, nationality, etc., thus allowing authenticity into this system just by something as simple as accepting and showing respect to the human species’ factual diversity. We become greater just by respecting and appreciating talent in all its shapes, sizes, and forms. Award winners, which includes nominees, must be chosen on the greatness of their talent ALONE.
I am sure I am speaking for a multitude of Cinema lovers all over the world when I speak of the following sentiments that this medium of art has blessed me with. Cinema taught me about our world, at times in English and at times through the beautiful one-inch bar of subtitles. I learned from the stories in the global movies that we are all alike across all borders. Remember that one of the best symbols of many great civilizations and their prosperity has been the art they have left behind. This art can be in the form of paintings, sculptures, architecture, writings, inventions, etc. For our modern society, Cinema happens to be one of them. Cinema is more than just a form of entertainment, it is an integral part of society. I love the world uniting, be it for Cinema, TV, media, art, fashion, sport, etc. Please keep this going full speed.”
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Kaili Spooner’s passion lies in sports journalism and Black TV/Film, and her writing strongly aligns with The Hollywood Insider’s values of delivering factual and in-depth coverage. While her future career goal is to be a sports journalist and do social media work for the NBA/WNBA, for now, she balances her academic pursuits with being a collegiate volleyball player at SSU and unwinding with her favorite comedy and drama sitcoms at home.
Kaili Spooner’s passion lies in sports journalism and Black TV/Film, and her writing strongly aligns with The Hollywood Insider’s values of delivering factual and in-depth coverage. While her future career goal is to be a sports journalist and do social media work for the NBA/WNBA, for now, she balances her academic pursuits with being a collegiate volleyball player at SSU and unwinding with her favorite comedy and drama sitcoms at home.
