This week’s discussion prompt: The practice of hashtag activism was mentioned briefly in Chapter Nine, and incorporates concepts from the other chapters in this course; in particular, the intersection of social inequality, mediatization and political communication. Croteau & Hoynes (2019) point out that, “In some cases, so-called hashtag activism has enabled isolated voices to coalesce, attracting attention to neglected issues” (p. 327), and identifies examples, including #Ferguson, #BlackLivesMatter, #NeverAgain, and #MeToo. The authors go on argue that, drawing on Tufecki (2017), that, “Such activism will never replace traditional political organizing, but it has a useful role to play (p. 327). Additionally, they cite that social media is supplemental and associated with higher levels of political participation, rather than direct learning about political policy, candidates, etc. (p. 327).
In your post, please answer the following questions: What is the definition of mediatization, and how might we use that concept to explain the increased role of hashtag activism in the fight against social inequality? Has there been a particular hashtagthat has increased your political knowledge about a particular issue of inequality? For example, #MeToo increased many people’s knowledge/awareness about sexual misconduct, sexism and misogyny. And lastly, what are your thoughts on hashtag activism as a way to challenge inequality?
