Performative activism or surface-level activism is "activism" done to gain recognition for an individual’s benefit rather than for action. The individual is not devoted to the cause but wants to be seen as supportive or woke. Any interest in the topic is about recognition on platforms such as Twitter or Instagram, and this short-lived interest completely misses the point of important movements.
With “being woke” becoming a trend, performative activism is always just around the corner. It has dangerous implications for the causes involved. A recent example of this is in regards to the Black Lives Matter Movement. In June, millions of people posted solid black images on Instagram with the hashtag ‘#BlackOutTuesday”.
While there are no ill intentions, there are many negative effects following performative activism. Performative activism often demeans the seriousness of movements and takes attention away from those who are advocating for change and those who need change. Sometimes it also leads to speaking over people who have experienced the issue while being in a position of privilege, thus silencing the voices that deserve to be amplified. Ultimately, important information is hidden under the thousands of posts about "supporting" the cause without actually helping in any way.
Being an activist involves thorough research and reading through any threads or posts before sharing them. It requires continuous unlearning and re-education from those who are affected, and (if possible) donation to organisations that directly help the movements you wish to support.
Written by Ty Sparkes
Artwork by Zara Masood
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