Social media is a place where change can happen. It’s sometimes difficult to think about, as discussions about politics and all the world’s problems often feel merely performative like someone is posting something about the environment or social activism just for the likes.
However, Instagram can also be a place where real change unfolds. You can make a change in the world through photography, video, the ability to buy Story views, and your words. What better way to illustrate this than to look at several changemakers that have helped the world for the better?
1 Greta Thunberg
You’ve more than likely heard of Greta Thunberg, a Swedish climate activist who has been putting world leaders’ feet to the fire to make changes to save the climate. At this point, it’s undeniable that some massive climate events are happening all at once, from record-breaking temperatures to powerful storms in areas that generally don’t get them. And yet, it feels like no one’s doing anything to stop it. Greta’s Instagram conveys that we should not wait to take action, as it’s only getting once. As of this article, she is only 20 years old, inspiring many young and older adults to take action even to this day.
2 LGBT History
Some people believe that LGBT activism is relatively new; consider the 80s and beyond. However, LGBTQ+ people have existed and been around since the founding of this country, and what better way to prove this than an account dedicated to the history of activism in this community? You can find many old videos and photos from protests, old buttons with slogans, and even modern history unfolding. If you’re LGBTQ+ or an ally, we recommend following this account.
3 So Informed
To make a change in the world, you need to be up-to-date on the current news and issues. But it can be challenging to figure out where to look for the most critical news without feeling biased or having to read paragraph upon paragraph of information.
Not to mention, there are a lot of accounts that lean one way or another. You might just want the news without the overly political bias that comes with searching through different news outlets in order to find the latest news and content.
So Informed is a great Instagram page for this. It breaks down the current news in a slideshow and is easy to digest. With it, you can stay up-to-date on the recent goings-on in the world and even have a conversation in the comments.
4 Free the Nipple
This account is dedicated to giving women’s breasts the same treatment as men’s; in other words, they are not treated like taboo sexual objects in our society. The account itself also discusses other talking points related to modern-day feminism, so if you need a place to go to see activists happening, then Free the Nipple is for you.
Of course, Instagram is a platform that fears the nipple, so it’s fun to see the account try to push the boundaries of what is and isn’t allowed on the forum. Overall, it’s an entertaining and provocative feminist account that is more relevant than ever.
5 Amy Serrano
One issue that Instagram has helped people expose is the mistreatment of animals in our society. Even if you’re not a vegan, you may agree that the factory farming industry, the fur industry, and any other industry that uses animals could treat it more ethically. Sorrano is one of those activists dedicated to fighting for animal rights, even facing criminal charges for putting her money where her mouth is. If you like your activists with a bite, follow her.
6 How to Change the World
If you’re reading this article, you may be interested in making a change in the world, but it can be challenging. You may not have the power to make any changes other than following and supporting your favorite activist creators.
However, if you do this, you’re engaging in what is known as passive activism. You may be spreading awareness of some issues, which is excellent, but you’re not making active changes to help those around you. Luckily, there are some ways that you can change the world, including:
- Donate money to your movements. Find a charity or another fundraiser that you feel is reliable, and send some money their way. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars; just a few can help make a difference. In addition, consider starting your own fundraisers. You could have a bake sale, for example.
- Is there a protest going on near you? Do your research and make your voices heard outside. While digital protests can be practical tools, being outside is still the best way to make changes and spread awareness.
- Be active in politics. Consider running for office or at least writing a letter to your congressperson. Vote and make your voices heard. If you have a candidate you believe can make a difference, let others know, especially if they’re more obscure.
- Of course, social media activism is still activism. Host online digital events, and don’t be afraid to let your voices be heard on pages dedicated to a politician you disagree with.
These are a few ways you can make a difference. It may not seem small at first, but change is one of those things that seems to move slowly at first, but once the wheels begin turning, you can see a massive shift in the social paradigm.
Final Thoughts
Instagram can be a powerful tool for social activism and entrepreneurship, and that’s because a picture is worth a thousand words. The pictures you find there can show injustice, carry a provocative message, and give you a call to action. If you’re wishing to change the world, following activists on Instagram and performing activism of your own is more effective than you may think. We hope this article was helpful to you. Now, go out there and make a difference in your area!
