The California Wildfires took place in the summer of 2018 when a series of forest fires broke out in the northern part of the state, becoming one of the deadliest fires to date. The aftermath resulted in fatalities, injuries, loss of properties, and billions of dollars in damages overall. Celebrity activism was crucial during this time, as their platform allows them to spread the word and encourage donations.
With millions of followers on social media platforms such as Instagram, celebrities have some of the largest outreach in the world. Many did their part in providing effective activism to their platform. People such as the Kardashian family, Busy Phillips, Ellen DeGeneres, and more, shared effective donation information in the form of posts and Instagram stories. Links to foundations, shelters, and local fire stations were shared amongst the platform in hopes to encourage support from the community. Social media platforms like Instagram allow for some of the most effective forms of online activism. It allows for the message to be spread, bringing awareness to people all around the world about the severity of the situation. Instagram currently has over one billion monthly active users and is accessible to anyone with internet access. Celebrities using their voice and their platform to advocate for a greater cause can make a difference for the community. Recently, the California Community Foundation for Wildfire Relief shared that after the third round of funding, their donations to communities impacted by the Camp, Woolsey, and Hill fires reached 17.2 million dollars. Not only has Instagram activism been able to contribute to monetary support, but many people in the community continued to donate physical items to shelters as well.
While Instagram activism has largely benefitted communities, it has not gone without controversy. The situation brings to light the issue of celebrities asking their followers to donate, while many themselves are millionaires. Although people such as Ellen Degeneres and the Kardashians have made generous donations, it brings to question the true authenticity of the advocation. Many followers come from a variety of incomes, and the majority would not be able to put forth as much donation as the celebrity themselves could afford to do. While many celebrities donated, the ones who didn’t, yet still ask their followers to, come into question.
Social Media Activism: California Wildfires 