Back Lives Matter Case Study

Improved Essays
The new paradigm of citizen journalism
Nevertheless, in addition to the above claims, there is substantial evidence of constructive outcomes linked to the new media platforms and citizen journalism initiatives. Traditionally, the established news outlets and broadcasting networks rely on set agendas, which essentially determine the information value of all news presented to the public (Rose and Fox, 2014). Conversely, the active participation culture encourages engagement in discussions, blogs or news feeds, and redistribution of news through social media (Purcell et al. 2010). As a result, there are no hierarchical structures in place, and no restrictions for individual voices and opinions. In this sense, one of the greatest achievements of Black Lives Matter has been its reliance on inclusivity and diversity. By connecting varied social networks around the world through the tweet #BlackLivesMatter, the movement has created an umbrella for multiple interest groups, social causes and disadvantaged minorities, including older generations of Black activists (Freelon et al., 2016; Rickford, 2016).
Furthermore, a crucial feature of the new media environment is its image-presentation potential through new technologies, such as mobile phones, and readily available platforms, such as
…show more content…
Thus, Back Lives Matter and other social groups that advocate for a just and equal society use new technological tools in order to reach all people, to promote egalitarian practices of communication, and to trigger 'real-life' changes (Freelon et al.,

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