Join A Movement

By: Sarah Vandermolen Sports Editor

In 2017, the #MeToo movement founded by Tarana Burke in 2006 swept across all social media platforms and made victims of sexual abuse not feel alone. Every day, people come forward sharing their experiences on different platforms — even some celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon, Lady Gaga and Terry Crews have shared their stories.

Since then, social media has become more than just a place to share pictures of your vacation or to watch videos of cute animals. Apps such as Twitter, Instagram and TikTok have made it easier for people to amplify their voices and share their message to an audience.

Below are movements and organizations you should consider following and supporting on social media:

#TimesUp

TIME’S UP is a non-profit charitable organization that has launched several initiatives such as TIME’S UP Legal Defense Fund, TIME’S UP Impact Lab and more. According to www. timesupnow.org, this movement focuses on creating, “...a world where everyone is safe and respected at work. A world where all women have an equal shot at success and security. A world where no one lives in fear of sexual harassment or assault.”

*The Catholic Church does not condone suicide.

15 Percent Pledge

The Fifteen Percent Pledge is centered around getting more exposure for Black-owned brands. “Black people make up 15% of the US population. So, we asked businesses to dedicate 15% of their shelf space to Black-owned brands” explains www.15percentpledge.com. This movement is in partnership with Google, but other companies have pledged, including Sephora, VOGUE, Athleta, Old Navy and many more.

The Trevor Project

According to www.thetrevorproject.org, the mission of The Trevor Project is “to end suicide among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and questioning young people.” This is a non-profit organization that offers support for the young members of the LGBTQ+ community. The Trevor Project hopes to “serve 1.8 million crisis contacts annually, by the end of our 25th year, while continuing to innovate on our core services.”

Although it does help to repost and share messages and videos on social media, nothing benefits these organizations more than actually going out and helping. Whether you donate, attend a rally, organize an event or volunteer for the cause, being an active member of these organizations is the best thing you can do to make a change and support the different causes.