Gen Z, or Zoomers, the first true digital natives born roughly from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, have come of age in a world acutely aware of interconnected global challenges. Key social causes deeply felt by Gen Z include the climate crisis, human rights, mental health awareness, economic insecurity and social justice issues.
Redefining activism for the digital age, Gen Z has moved beyond traditional marches, embracing a dynamic range of online actions. This includes the creation of viral awareness campaigns, the strategic implementation of digital boycotts, and the pervasive use of social media as a primary tool for mobilization.
Platforms are strategically utilized, with TikTok fostering viral engagement, Instagram enabling powerful visual storytelling, Twitter/X facilitating real-time discussions, and YouTube hosting in-depth content. This digital ecosystem allows for the rapid organization of protests, the widespread dissemination of vital information, and the formation of online communities united by shared social goals.
Crucially, these platforms serve to amplify the voices of marginalized individuals and groups, enabling them to reach and resonate with global audiences. Successful examples of this digital activism include impactful viral campaigns witnessed in movements like #BlackLivesMatter and #MeToo.
However, this powerful digital landscape also presents significant challenges, notably the spread of disinformation and increasing societal polarization. Despite these hurdles, Gen Z’s digitally-driven activism has already yielded tangible results, with numerous campaigns and movements gaining considerable traction and achieving real-world impact through the strategic use of social media. While online activism sometimes faces criticisms regarding slacktivism and the potential for superficial engagement, it is essential to recognize both its limitations and its crucial role in complementing offline action for meaningful change.
Author: Chiara Monterosso (JUMP – ITALY)