^{(Content Warning: mentions suicide)}

The villainous nature of the media has been more apparent than ever in the last few months. With #FreeBritney, Meghan Markle’s Oprah interview, and the recent documentary on Caroline Flack’s life and death, discussions about the Press’s part in the downfall and pain of famous women are growing, as they should – could this be the reckoning of tabloids as we know them?

The press has been a strong force in culture, politics and just about everything for the last half a century, and gossip mags and tabloid publications more so in the last quarter, but despite our guilty pleasure for a bit of juicy gossip, it’s always been an obviously harmful thing. One clear epitome in the 2000s was Jade Goody, a celebrity born out of Big Brother, who was constantly raised up and shot down by the UK tabloids in a rollercoaster of vilification revolving around her appearance, education, and background.

We can look back now and think about the almost sadistic actions of the paparazzi and press, but they are no different from what still goes on. Just typing “Meghan Vs. Kate Media” into Google will give you thousands of examples of the world taking a disliking to ridiculous levels, whole headlines and pages dedicated to condemning a woman for the smallest things within the public eye. A significant takeaway from Harry and Meghan’s Oprah interview was Meghan’s reveal of suicidal thoughts at the hand of brutal media coverage, showing just how far the press’s impact goes.

For Caroline Flack, the same effects had a devastating result; the presenter committed suicide at the beginning of last year, following the cruelty of publications during a court case. Hounded and scrutinized by the media for years, the press’ hunt proved too much, and the weeks after her death showed loving tribute’s to Flack, spouted out by the very same magazines.

The media have even come under fire in recent weeks for their part in the current discrimination against East Asians in the ignorant association with Covid-19, with pictures of China and East Asians set as the token image for articles about coronavirus, perpetuating this Covid-related hate crime. If there’s one thing that this shows, it’s the ignorance and lack of awareness the press have of their own impact. Outraged by this irresponsibility, petitions and projects have been planned to hold these publications accountable, publications as omnipresent as the BBC and The Guardian.

In a period of growing self-awareness, solidarity, and open reprimand of cruelty and offense, it’s shocking that these forces of vilification haven’t been stopped or made to answer for their words and actions already. But with conversation growing, and gossip columns and tabloids becoming more and more disapproved of, there is more chance than ever for this horrible cycle to stop.

Words By Daisy Greetham, Graphics By Millie Pollok

The post Is This The Reckoning Of Harmful Press? appeared first on Voir Fashion.

It is evident that social media now forms part of our daily lives, and therefore its influence in society has become inevitable. Some may see it as a simple way to share imagery and keep up with friends, but it has become much more than that. It’s empowering to think that with something as simple as your Instagram account you can be the pioneer of a social movement, as done by many of our favourite influencers. Whether it’s about gender equality, self-acceptance, or even climate change you can share your message and encourage many others to do the same.

Here’s a list of the personalities we think you should follow in order to support social causes and use Instagram as a tool for change:

Koreen Odiney@koreen

Koreen Odiney is a 25 years old multifaceted artist based in L.A and the creator behind ‘We Are Not Really Strangers’ the thought-provoking card game that has been taking over Instagram. The model and photojournalist uses her account to push boundaries when it comes to communication and relationships. Through WNRS she initiated a movement to encourage our generation to start speaking up and leave behind the superficial facade often found and encouraged by social media. Both her personal and business accounts refer to topics varying from self-belief to privilege, and has resulted in the creation of a strong and constructive online community that surpasses a screen and is worth being part of.

Alice Aedy

@aliceaedy

Alice Aedy is an activist in every sense and form. She’s a film-maker and documentary photographer that uses her art to highlight aspects in our society that need our immediate attention and what better way to share it than through social media? The 26 years old is the founder of an online platform that concentrates on the female figures that are shaping our current society, and like her, support causes close to their hearts. By following her account you will be able to keep up with her various initiatives, some focused on climate change like ‘Earthrise’, or the loneliness epidemic affecting our generation like ‘Disconnected’. And even if you don’t know much about these matters we can assure you that you won’t regret following her and her social fights.

Stephanie Shepherd

@steph_shep

You might be aware of @futureearth, the Instagram climate club providing us all with the latest information and news regarding the climate crisis and what we can do to stop it. What you may not know is that one of the faces behind the account is Stephanie Shepherd. The COO of Kardashian West Brands is one of the most active advocates for climate change and humanitarian causes like period poverty, with over 1.5 million followers on Instagram. In a recent interview with Forbes she explained that she considers it her responsibility and privilege to use her voice for a bigger cause and help the ones in need. She is proof that even the provision of a new fact or relevant information can contribute to a bigger change, especially in our digital age.

Emily Ratajakowski@emrata

Emily Ratajkowski is one of the most representative faces of our current media landscape, and no, not just because of her looks. The actress, model, designer, and business owner doesn’t want to be considered as an activist but she definitely fits the definition of one. She considers herself as a citizen who cares, and her willingness and effort to be an active citizen are visible in all of her online content. She has recently been one of the most vocal celebrities regarding Black Lives Matter, encouraging all of her followers to take action and reminding us all that it’s not necessary not to be racist, but we ought to actively be anti-racist. Her account is the source and daily boost of empowerment we all need.

Gabrielle Caunesil

@gabriellecaunesil

Gabrielle Caunesil is another of our favourite personalities at the moment. She is known for her modeling work and vibrant style, but the reasons we love her go far beyond that. The Parisian model uses her Instagram as a personal journal and means of communication with her followers. She shares everything from her values and personal stories, to advice and awareness on social issues. She’s vocal about body empowerment and challenges the concept of ideal bodies, her brand La Semaine Paris is the representation of her respect for sustainability and through her humor and knowledge represents contemporary activism that we should all support. Words by Chiara Ferrari

Graphics by Georgia Walters

The post Social Media Influencers Using Their Platforms to Encourage Social Activism appeared first on Voir Fashion.