Description

The dynamic relationship between social justice movements and social media has had a profound impact on society and political systems. The communities impacted are historically excluded and unaware of policies and practices that affect their daily lives. The case study focal to my research is Environmental Justice with climate change agitating poor infrastructure and infrastructural practices, solutions must be transformative rather than reactionary. My project #EnvironmentalJustice.Now recognizes the human right to clean air, water, and overall living environment and raises awareness of environmental injustices locally and nationally. Inspired by the Environmental Justice For All Act (first introduced to Congress March 18th, 2021), it acted as a federal definition for environmental justice further used to engage with local instances of environmental racism. Case studies analyzing the media’s influence on social behaviors and patterns provide a framework to examine the digital sphere and social justice issues. #Environmental Justice.Now exemplifies the role that social media can have as a model tool for social justice activism. With the goal to amass a following of individuals interested in environmental justice and willing to engage in online activism, the result is a following composed of coalitions, individuals, and community organizations. Using Environmental Justice as a case study, I developed a social media campaign to promote initiatives, information and petitions advocating for environmental justice. Focusing specifically in San Diego, #Environmental Justice.Now examines the results of environmental racism in Barrio Logan. These communities’ residences are cited by the United States Environmental Protection Agency as more at risk of respiratory illness due to diesel truck pollution. Yet, companies like companies like Mitsubishi Cement Corporation continue to appeal to build within the neighboring community. Using a mixed methods approach, this social media campaign supported the mission of the Environmental Health Coalition of San Diego, facilitated an interview with a local resident and activist interested in the Environmental Justice For All Act and provided offline engagement by following up with in-person community engagements. To quantify the project’s impact, social media analytics were used to track engagement and test SMART goals.