We all believe in something, and we are lucky to live in a country where we can stand up for ourselves and others. Any one person can make a difference, but some have more pull than others.
Celebrities have a platform unlike other people in our society. They have a following, whether built through music, film, athletics or other professions, and fans look to them for direction. As social media use grows, we have exposure every single day to millions of opinions.
As I scroll through Instagram or Facebook, my favorite actors and musicians catch my eye. I have been noticing that more and more frequently, the people we glamorize are speaking about issues that affect people across the world.
What comes to mind are a couple of topics that have worked their way to the headlines: mental health, the #MeToo movement, women’s equality and how political involvement by the population could improve problems. Because of my interests, I follow many more women on social media than men, so there is a clear bias in the content I see. Even so, it has astounded me how brave public figures are to speak on behalf of people without the platform.
Although the careers of public figures may seem glamorous, their lifestyle does not make them less susceptible to issues of equality, mental health or discrimination. Money does not foster happiness or protect you from negative words or actions by others. Validation from others makes our feelings more real, especially from people we picture without flaws. Celebrities face constant ridicule; when they are courageous and speak out, it gives people a sense of community and relationship.
At this year’s American Music Awards, Taylor Swift, Tracee Ellis Ross and Billy Eichner all prompted viewers to register to vote in the upcoming November 6 elections. Swift won four awards this year, and during one of her acceptance speeches she reminded those watching that the awards given out “were voted on by the people,” and so are “the midterm elections on November 6.”
At the same awards show, comedian and actor Billy Eichner told the audience, “the biggest election of our lifetime is happening.”
Variety Magazine hosted Power of Women: Los Angeles Oct. 12, an event honoring women in Hollywood who contributed most to philanthropy. Among the women honored, Natalie Portman spoke about #MeToo and the need for diversity in every outlet of our society. Portman said it is time we “be embarrassed if everyone in (our) workplace looks like (us).” Adversity helps us to grow and become more open-minded and inclusive.
Miley Cyrus told Elle in 2014 that “people don’t know how to talk about being depressed.” She also said “every person can benefit from talking to somebody” and emphasized the need for losing the taboo of mental health.
Demi Lovato told People Magazine in 2015, in reference to mental health, that she wants “to be able to help people and help try to prevent that suffering from happening.”
It is easy to think celebrities have perfect lives, when in reality, they are people like everyone else. But with millions of followers on social media, there is no doubt they have a much greater impact than many. In this respect, it is important they use their attention for positive advocacy.