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BLACK LIVES MATTER
In 2013, the hashtag #blacklivesmatter spreads all over social media platforms in support of black lives and to protest police brutality. This proved that protests did not have to be in person, but that a difference could be made online as well. Social media users on various platforms including Twitter and Instagram took a stand to spread a good message. This also kept the conversation alive and the movement top of mind. -
ISIS
ISIS uses social media apps on the Play Store to communicate with, recruit, and persuade social media users. Eventually, they begin using other platforms, like Twitter, to share messages and videos. -
STARBUCKS INCIDENT
In 2018 we saw the power of a viral video. At a Starbucks store in Philadelphia, a store manager called the police on 2 black men, who were simply waiting for a colleague to arrive and meet them. The video went viral, and eventually, the CEO of Starbucks released a formal apology. This incident showed how social media can bring events to light that may have gone unnoticed. -
#METOO
Victims of sexual assault unite to bring awareness to these incidents by using the hashtag #MeToo to connect and bring these tragedies to light. In 2018, Harvey Weinstein was arrested for rape and sexual assault. This social media movement was a result of the noteworthy arrest and allowed thousands of other individuals to share their stories and protest sexual assault while coming together to comfort and uplift. -
#BLACKLIVESMATTER
After the death of George Flloyd, social media stood up once again, by using the #BLACKLIVESMATTER hashtag to stand up for what they believed in. People began posting a black square on Instagram to represent their support. Social media protests lead to physical protests, and unfortunately, some became violent. -
UKRAINE INVASION
Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and all social media platforms are flooded with protests, support, and love for Ukraine. In 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine causing heartache and devastation for families all over the country. Because of social media, money was raised, help was sent, and awareness was raised for the those stuck in Ukraine and for the lives that were lost.