#socialaction

Source: Demos UK, 2018

Demos, a UK independent educational charity recently released a report, “Plugged In: Social Action on Social Media,” wherein researchers examined the ways in which social media can organize, influence, and encourage social action. The study interviewed campaigners, campaign groups, and social media users to gauge their stances on the impact of the increasing digitalization of social action. After surveying 2,000 people between ages 16-50, the studies showed the following: 

Nearly two-thirds of young people (64%) see social media platforms as an essential part of achieving social change, and over half of 35-50 year olds agree (55%)

Young women are nearly twice as likely to use social media to campaign on issues important to them (19%) than young men (10%)

91% felt social media had a net positive impact on them and their community

The study also brought up the role of accessibility and prevalence of social media, both of which can affect an individual’s notion of impactfulness. They stated that for those of which the online world feels like home, “social media is seen as a powerful tool for changing the world.” On the other hand, for those who aren’t actively engaged in the online world, the power of such platforms can be misused or go unused entirely.

Source: Demos UK, 2018

From incorporating hashtags to teaming up with a celebrity or influencer for a cause, knowing which channels and platforms to utilize in order to effectively mobilize an audience is key to a cause gaining momentum. An interesting finding from the study was the role different mediums play on influencing an individual’s decision for which causes to support.

Source: Demos UK, 2018

While social media campaigns play a significant role for younger respondents, offline sources were more influential to the older group. However, for both groups, it’s important to note how word of mouth and other non-digital mediums still hold major significance in influencing decision making. The study even went on to further break down influence based on the place of living of the survey respondents.

Source: Demos UK, 2018

In summary, the report illustrates how the power of social media has immense potential to be a catalyst for social action. It also has the potential to create what they termed an activism gap: a world where only the digitally-included are represented and whose visions for society are articulated, and those who are not represented or whose voices are not heard are left powerless.

Midrash Tehillim teaches that we should “defend the poor and the orphan” and always “do justice to the afflicted and needy” (82:3).  In this winter season, it is especially important to help those who cannot afford food, a nice warm home, or warm clothes.

Reform Judaism teaches us the importance of Tikkun Olam, or mending the world. For many, that concept involves volunteering to relieve human suffering, care for the earth or raise awareness on a variety of different issues. The following resources are designed to help congregations coordinate volunteer service opportunities and for individuals to find meaningful, quality volunteer opportunities for themselves, their friends and families.