Hands up, don’t shoot. I can’t breathe. No justice, no peace.
These last few months have been a whirlwind of emotion and outrage, not only for the families that have suffered but for communities everywhere. A large imprint on the situation has been social media. Online activism is where people use the internet and their own platforms to educate other and spread awareness on social issues. It has been vital to creating an online atmosphere where people can further the discussion. From racial equality to to gender rights and much more, social media has given these issues a much larger platform. However, it does beg the question: do people actually care about these issues and want to make a difference or are they doing because it’s “trendy”?
In the article, “#BlackLivesMatter Surges on Twitter after George Floyd’s Death”, they brought up some interesting points. One of them being how racial activism surges after major news events. I recently had a discussion with one of my clients on this issue. He was questioning that if this was such a big issue, why doesn’t he hear about it more often? The thing is the discussion tends to be louder and more active when the event happens and tends to disperse after a while. So unless you are actively searching for this information or this type of discussion, you are not going to hear about it as much. I guess it depends on the type of people you surround yourself with. In my case, I have lots of friends who are outspoken on social issues, and I also stay up-to-date with many activism pages. Therefore, I see it as more of an issue than he might since he doesn’t have social media. There lies the issue. Social media, although has its benefits of starting conversations, only remains relevant at the time. I think many people tend to see it as a trend: once the issue has “served its time”, people don’t give it the same attention. Unless one thoroughly involves themselves in activism, they don’t see it the same way as those who do.
In some cases, people use their platforms to raise awareness on the movement. They continue the conversation and push the message forward. However, some people thinking having links in their bio or posting a black square is enough. It is not enough. Having conversations with your friends or families help continue the promote that there is an issue. Staying up to date on what is happening helps. Calling out your ignorant friends, family members, classmates, neighbors, ignorant whoever, and trying to open up their mind. That will make a difference. Posting a black square and calling it a day is not a message that will bring forth change. You do not need to go out to protests to be involved in activism. There is so much you can do at home as well.
