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What do recent events tell us about the relationship between social movements and the media?

Irven Selburn

Recent events have shown us that the relationship between social movements and the media is incredibly complex, nuanced, and ever-changing. At times, social movements and the media have had a symbiotic relationship, with social movements relying on the media to amplify their message and the media relying on social movements for compelling stories and increased ratings. However, more often than not, the relationship between social movements and the media is fraught with tension and conflict.

One of the most significant recent events that highlights the complexities of this relationship is the ongoing Black Lives Matter protests that have swept the globe in response to police brutality and systemic racism. While social media has been instrumental in organizing and spreading awareness about these protests, the mainstream media's coverage of the protests has been mixed at best. On the one hand, the media has provided a platform for activists to share their message and has helped to raise public awareness about issues of racial injustice. On the other hand, the media has often resorted to sensationalism and has focused more on the violent aspects of the protests rather than the underlying issues that are driving them.

Another recent event that sheds light on the relationship between social movements and the media is the #MeToo movement, which brought to light the prevalence of sexual assault and harassment in a variety of industries. The media played a crucial role in amplifying the voices of survivors and holding perpetrators accountable. However, it's worth noting that the #MeToo movement initially gained traction on social media before it was picked up by the mainstream media. This underscores the fact that social movements have the power to bypass traditional media channels and build momentum on their own.

Overall, recent events have shown us that the relationship between social movements and the media is complex, multifaceted, and constantly evolving. While the media can be a powerful tool for amplifying the voices of social movements and raising awareness about issues of social justice, it can also be a hindrance when it resorts to sensationalism or fails to adequately cover important issues. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, it's likely that we will continue to see social movements and the media intersect in new and unexpected ways. Only by remaining vigilant, critical, and vocal can we ensure that the media is held accountable and that social movements are given the platform they deserve to demand change and seek justice.