My thoughts on being an “activist” can be summed up in one saying: “with great power comes great responsibility,” as said by fictional character Spiderman’s Uncle Ben. In moments of activism, the attention shouldn’t be solely on the activist, but on the message behind the movement. Like many acts of change, there was a willingness from the activists to offer themselves as a liaison between the people and the movement.

This is what Jason Russell achieved with his 2012 documentary KONY. His 30-minute documentary changed the trajectory of how videos were consumed during a time when social media was still in its early phases. The documentary displays a powerful message and a mission to help children in Africa. While I watched the video, I was reminded of the purpose social media can serve in the world of activism.

Activism is a powerful form of resistance that allows for change. Russell attempted and succeeded in reaching the masses with his message. He was able to do what most couldn’t: reach so many people in a world where word-of-mouth marketing was still prevalent. Social media has grown into something much bigger than us. Activists are living proof that change can happen and good people exist.

However, the rise of digital activism also raises important questions about accountability, intention, and sustainability. While Jason Russell successfully captured global attention, the aftermath of KONY 2012 revealed how quickly movements can lose momentum when they are not grounded in long-term action. This highlights a key tension within modern activism: visibility does not always translate to impact. Social media can amplify voices, but it can also oversimplify complex issues, reducing them to trends rather than sustained efforts for change.

Being an “activist” today requires more than sharing a post or engaging with viral content. It demands education, consistency, and a willingness to look beyond the surface. True activism is not performative—it is intentional. It involves listening to the communities affected, supporting tangible solutions, and remaining committed even when the spotlight fades. In this way, the responsibility tied to activism becomes even greater in a digital age where influence is immediate, but meaningful change still takes time.