Online activism is taking part of in some form of change in an online format. This typically coincides well with being a digital leader. Digital leadership are those who speak for those who need a voice, learn and share for others to learn, a positive influence and more. As one can connect the dots a digital leader possess many similar qualities as those found in someone who is an activist. Trying to make a positive change and giving a voice to those in need.
The big question that stands with online activism is if it actually makes a difference or is it (as some people would call it ) slacktivism? An article from The Atlantic “Hashtag Activism isn’t a Cop-Out” Berlatsky interviews a couple activist that speak about how social media proved to be a huge impact in their cause. From finding like minds, not letting politics cover-up, to finding a bed to sleep in when people travel to support the cause, and much more. There are clear benefits to the use of social media. While not everyone may be out on the streets helping getting the word out there and helping organize movements plays an important role. Pinon stats in his article “How to Ensure your Online Activism Has an Offline Impact” The most important thing is to “tell a story and keep telling it” Social media gives this power with much more ease (pinon, 2019).
A great way for movements to continue to spread is through hashtags. We have seen the power of hashtag connect others and have a call to action. Bringing awareness and an openness to change, like the hashtag #BlackLivesMatter and many, many more. Hitchings-Hales and Imogen Calderwood Made not on eight different times where hashtags as they say “really worked”. If you would like to view some of these movements that occurred with help of social media and hashtag you can find it here 8 Massive Moments Hashtag Activism Really, Really Worked (globalcitizen.org) .
