How COVID-19 is shaping digital student activism
COVID-19 has driven us all to make permanent shifts in the way we utilize digital tools, and student activists are no exception. Activists have used social media for years and we’ve developed processes to support student activists based on our experience thus far. However, much like many of us have changed the way we use technology to learn, work and socialize; student activists have changed the way they use technology to advocate.
2020 created a perfect storm to expedite the evolution of digital student activism. Students are innovating to find virtual replacements for some of the essential functions of in-person activism: building support for a cause, demonstrating urgency, and amplifying unrepresented voices.
Digital activism transforms from a controversial activism tool to a primary vehicle for change
Is hashtag-based activism all talk, no action? –USA Today
Can online activism really change the world? –The Guardian
Many deny how pervasive racism is in higher education –Inside Higher Ed
COVID-19 is changing online activism’s reputation of being just “slacktivism” –VICE
Climate activism has moved online, and it is thriving –The World Economic Forum
Students are using Instagram to reveal racism on campus during COVID-19 –Vox
As activism evolves, student affairs leaders must reexamine the ways they support and engage with student activists. The first step is to understand trends in digital student activism.
COVID-19-driven trends in digital student activism
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1. Heightened cross-campus inspiration and strategy sharing between activist groups
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2. Increased use of digital petitions, likes, and shares as socially distant ways of demonstrating tangible support
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3. Students and alumni are using storytelling in new ways to call for change
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