Digital Media: The Megaphone for Change

Digital media has been an extraordinary platform for the worldwide empowerment of women. From a broad perspective, it is about women gaining confidence and sharing their stories in society, speaking about their lives, and the needs & issues they face. But from a critical perspective, it is a powerful tool that encourages social reform and creates solidarity amongst global communities. The Internet has enabled transparent interaction across the span of the world, and women in even the most fragile nations are able to critically engage with the mass media and politics from the perspectives of their own lives.

The access to knowledge and ability to share and connect has helped reach tremendous milestones for women. Social and cultural restrictions that previously may have resulted in silence through suffering have been challenged, and this in turn has encouraged women to initiate key decisions that impact their very lives. For example, a global campaign to end female genital mutilation has just scratched the surface, and there are already legislative changes taking place to ensure safety for women and girls. This extends to not only in regions where this practice is supported, but also in the United States where many females are susceptible to having this abhorrent practice performed. A topic that was considered too taboo or shameful has finally been given the much needed attention it deserved: through women and digital media.

Let’s not minimize how digital media also offers the means of self-reflection and self-advocacy by creating peer-to-peer knowledge networks through heightened connectivity. Grassroots women’s organizations are championing the need for literacy, social reform, and humanitarian advocacy. Women have been able to develop their ideas through creativity, celebrate their successes, and share their joys and sorrows. Through online platforms,the world has been able to empathize with struggles and initiate solidarity. Women have had the opportunity to be engaged with leadership and politics, and networks have been enhanced to further promote women to participate equally in society.

The strength of digital media truly relies on its accessibility and the opportunities it has provided for women spanning the globe. It is crucial to continue this mode of communication as a portal for a universal platform of social advancement. When we scrutinize the barriers women face, ranging from lack of provision of resources due to poverty, to physical safety, government censorship, and social norms that discourage them from holding equal roles in society, it seems like an uphill battle to initiate change where its needed most. However, this is truly the remarkable beginning of transformation, as the chances to be utilized, to be heard, and and to contribute valuably are steadily increasing.