“Who is an activist,” you might ask. Well let’s take a look at a few definitions to get us started off.
The definition of activism is the policy or action of using vigorous campaigning to bring about political or social change.
An activist, then, is a person who campaigns to bring about that political or social change.
Synonyms include, but are not limited to, protestors, zealots, radicals, or extremists.
Digital activism, therefore, is a type of activism that utilizes the internet and other forms of digital media as platforms for mass mobilization and political action. Social media, e-mail, mobile phones, videos, and podcasts are some of the most common modes of digital activism!
https://en.reset.org/knowledge/digital-and-online-activism
In doing this week’s assignment on digital activism, my eyes have been opened to things I’ve never really thought about! Some of the key points discussed within the articles provided are points that I have known about, but never truly taken a look at. It is mind-blowing to see how much of an impact we truly have in the digital world with just one click of a button!
Teens nowadays are all over social media. Whether or not they use their platforms for positive social influence is entirely up to the individual. The potential that the younger generation has to bring about social and political change is staggering! It is much higher than that of previous generations, where kids did not have as much of a voice!
This type of newfound activism can prove to be highly effective. It is possible that one Facebook status, Tweet, Instagram post, or YouTube video is moments away from becoming recognized by places all over the world! Again, whether or not these actions promote positive social or political change is ultimately up to the user.
Personally, I aspire to keep my social media persona positive, reflecting my core values and beliefs. It is all too easy nowadays for anyone to get their hands on any type of information that you provide to the world online!
Some key issues that we all need to consider as digital activists fall within social and political realms. Racism, sexual harassment, bullying, domestic violence, mental illnesses, and physical health are all excellent examples of matters we should be taking into our own hands digitally!
There are a few questions that I like to ask myself when it comes to my personal digital activism. What is the purpose of what I am posting? Does it help to further positive social and political reformation? Who will be able to view this material? What are the potential results from my posts? Who does this material effect? Is the information provided appropriate for all audiences?
Everyone can always improve their effectiveness when it comes to being an activist!
Overall, what I found most interesting about this assignment was how much of an actual impact our online activity can be! It is pivotal that, as digital activists, we are seeking to always help improve the world that we live in!
Caleb's Blog 