Scrolling through social media, you see all the things that are happening on our planet—endless bombs, the rolling back of women’s rights, and the erosion of your democratic freedoms. Let’s not forget the Facebook posts by crazy relatives and misinformation being spread by billionaires.
Here are some tools and information to help you stop doom-scrolling and feel empowered with online activism.
What is Online Activism?
Online activism transforms how individuals advocate for social, environmental, and political issues in our digitally connected world.
It is also known as digital activism, cyber-activism, or e-activism. It refers to using platforms like New/Mode, social media, websites, and email campaigns to raise awareness, mobilize support, and drive change for causes.
From viral hashtags to organized virtual campaigns, online activism has become a powerful tool for reaching global audiences and promoting change.
The Rise of Online Activism: Key Statistics
The accessibility of digital platforms has led to a surge in online activism, especially among younger generations.
Studies from Pew Research show that:
- Over 80% of people aged 18-29 have participated in online activism at least once, often through social media.
- More than 50% of global internet users have been influenced by online campaigns, petitions, or informational content related to social issues.
- Hashtags like #MeToo, #BlackLivesMatter, and #ClimateStrike have generated billions of impressions worldwide, bringing global awareness to crucial issues.
New/Mode users have sent over 100 million messages to decision-makers
Does Online Activism Work?
Yes, it does. Online activism works when people raise awareness, gather supporters, sign and create online petitions, organize digital campaigns, and mobilize supporters for offline action.
To make a meaningful impact, avoiding empty tactics and Slactivism is essential.
Our tools were designed to reach decision-makers and avoid performative actions that do not contribute to real-world change. Look at recent campaign wins from the New/Mode community.
When we think of the establishment, whether politicians or corporations, we believe in shadowy figures who can not be reached. This is not true. Those in power need to be held accountable, and with New/Mode, you can look up your local representative and find their name, number, and email address so your voice is heard.
How to get started with online activism
When you shut down your social media, you may feel hopeless or angry and not know how you can help with the important issues of our time.
That is why we created a platform for people like you to feel empowered and raise their voices to those in power.
Here are some easy steps you can take:
- Take a deep breath and step away from the endless scrolling
- Get informed about the issues that matter to you
- Create an online petition
- Send a message to your local representative
- Support other like-minded causes
- Go beyond hashtags, social media shares, and fight for the issues that matter to you.
Join our community of people who are making their voices impossible to ignore.
We can’t wait to see what you’ll change for the better.
Further Reading
What is digital activism?
Is Digital Activism effective?
The Role of Digital Tools in the World of Online Activism
Online activism isn’t just slacktivism
How online petitions can go beyond performative activism. Use 'Smart Petitions
Online activism – News, Research and Analysis
The Effectiveness of Online Activism
More on Activism from New/Mode Blog
More on Activism from New/Mode Blog
