Q&A for Claudia Zapata

 Q: In what ways is social media activism helpful? What can be said when people deem social media activism as performative and ingenuine?

  A: Zapata's essay exemplifies the power of social media in the section Web 2.0. We all know and love Twitter and Youtube that make a collaborative space. These websites allow us to comment, contribute, and create conversations between thousands of users. The trending page on Twitter keeps up with everyday social media trends and even on mass movements with hashtags like BLM and ACAB. I've found myself finding out national news through there as well. Lately, it's become a space where politics are the main topic. It reflects the general views of the everyday people and creates a space for "artivism" as Fabianna Rodriguez coins herself as an artivist. I've noticed people share BLM petitions, share digital art infographics on social issues on Instagram, and make threads of "ways to help" such as places to donate to or which state representatives to call/write. A lot of users have called this social activism as fake or "performative". Users have also been criticized for not posting at all about these issues. The main concern is surrounding if sharing information about this social/political topic actually help? Although it would be hard to discern a social media user's true feelings and genuine concern for movements like BLM and politics, it would be dismissive to say social media activism doesn't help at all. It creates conversation and brings mass media attention to concerns that need to be addressed. Chicano artists like Lalo Acaraz spread awareness through their art and acts of sharing through social media. With the BLM movement, Oree Original's photographs circulated through Twitter which contributed to sharing the story of Travyon Martin and other victims of police brutality. Without the spreading of artivism and social media activism, I would not be informed on a lot of detrimental social topics that matter today. I think it is harmful to dismiss the power of artivism and social media. Even if someone's intentions are just to "look good", they are spreading information to other users that matter.

Lalo Alcaraz cartoon after pro-Trump and anti-maskers protest in Huntington Beach, CA

Lalo Alcaraz & Andrew McMeel Syndication Copyright 2020