We’ve all, at some point, received a DM on social media about a movement we need to be part of to show solidarity. All they’ve asked for is to post pictures on our stories and use the right hashtag, for example, the #challengeaccepted trend that occurred recently. These movements are extremely vital, especially during quarantine, as going out on the streets and protesting isn’t an option. However, in my opinion, these movements aren’t having any effect or inspiring change. Politicians aren’t shaking in their boots because you put a black and white photo of yourself on social media and mindsets aren’t changing because of a hashtag.
It is because of these movements on social media that a lot of people feel that they’re part of a fight for a cause, but that is not true. I do not deny that social media is an extremely useful platform to share information and raise awareness about issues that no one talks about. Unfortunately, there is an unintended consequence to this kind of hashtag activism. People use these Instagram story chains to absolve themselves of any guilt or responsibility. It makes people feel as if this is what they are supposed to do to inspire change and that becomes a deterrent to any physical movements or action except that which takes place on social media. The sad truth is you aren’t really helping anyone. Yes, showing solidarity and support is important and so is sharing information about social issues, but what’s more important is taking action to change mindsets and help people who are in need.
Show your support but don’t let that be the end of your role as a change maker. As the privileged, there’s so much more we can accomplish than pressing that ‘post’ button. The fact that we haven’t experienced adversity simply means that we need to help those that have. Don’t erase any other need you might feel to help people because you feel your reach only goes as far as your profile.
In 1971, poet and musician Gil Scott-Heron’s radical spoken words in his poem, ‘The Revolution Will Not Be Televised’ laid out the truth for us. In the age of social media, we could say that the revolution will not start on your Instagram stories either. It’s vital that we don’t use these movements as a means to make ourselves feel better about the fact that we are unconscious contributors to an oppressive society. Instead, they should be viewed as the beginning of a larger movement and a way to stay informed.
REFLECTION: Social Activism
If you were to join a cause on social media, what would it be and why?
