true. It’s easy to see a post or video and quickly share it without checking its sources or fact-checking the content. Thus, unintentional misinformation can result from careless “slacktivism.” This is the real threat to a movement. As such, the solution should be improving media literacy, not criticizing wellintentioned performative activists for being fake. This could mean implementing media literacy education in school, regulating social media content in a way where it can still retain its instantaneous qualities, and more. Even if there is no real substance to posting a black square on Blackout Tuesday, there is at least one effect: exposure, which is critical for the longevity and success of social justice movements in a democratic society. At the same time, not posting that black square doesn’t mean you’re not an activist or someone who cares. There are plenty of other ways to contribute towards a cause including donating, volunteering, or doing advocacy work. It just so happens that for the majority of financially dependent high school students with busy lives, slacktivism fits best into their schedule and for the resources available to them. No, it may not be the most impactful way to make change. But it’s something, and something is better than nothing. PAGE 32 VOL. 1, NO. 1 ZEITGEIST
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