It is the youth of today that will bring about change in the world, as their numbers are great and their passions are high. The idea of using fandom to organize their potential as a voice for change is an interesting way organize the youth of today and inform them on current issues of social activism. Having a captive group that share similar interests and have them act on mass, is a powerful tool.
I have used social media in a similar way. I realized that over the past 20 years of teaching I have amassed a larger following of former students that are in that age range and older, that share a common interest in animation and game design. I generally use this to inform people of current job openings, or to share articles on our industry. Recently I have decided to utilize this medium as a means of disseminating information regarding the current political climate in Canada. Recognising that the last election was won based on the apathy and lack of participation by young adults attending university; this is where I needed to focus my attention. Had they been remotely interested or knew what was happening around them, they could have changed the outcome.
If you are a friend of mine on Facebook, you would soon discover my distain for the current Harper government. Some would say that I post too much information, but I feel it necessary to inform my friends and this group of former student about the political happenings that may not normally cross their newsfeed. If I reach only a few, that in turn passes the information along through likes or shares, the potential to grow the audience, is exponentially. The sheer volume of posts and rants may dissuade a few, but I feel it’s more likely to capture someone’s attention. If that is the case, then my job is done. I know many of my friends will be happy once Oct. 19th has come and gone, along with the current government, as the anti-propaganda and information about unjust Bills will ceases from their newsfeeds.
Reference
Henry Jenkins. “Fan Activism as Participatory Politics: The Case of the Harry Potter Alliance.” DIY Citizenship. Eds. Matt Ratto and Megan Boler. Cambridge: MIT, 2015. pp. 65-73.