In the last few years, with the increase of social media usage, it seems that more and more celebrities and artists are becoming involved in politics. But should they be using their platform to discuss their political beliefs?
Artists have become more involved in politics and have begun using their platforms to inform and influence their followers by sharing their personal opinions and beliefs about different political topics. For some people, they are happy to see those with a greater reach speaking out on injustices and other political beliefs. However, others believe that this elite group of people should be censored on what they share concerning politics.
Courtney Smith, a middle level education major, said, “I think that artists should be using their platform to talk about politics. They are also people with opinions, and they can use their platform for good by sharing how they feel whether it be through the different mediums created or by actually taking the time to discuss how they feel.”
Taylor Swift is one artist that openly speaks out concerning politics and advocates for groups of people who are oppressed and bullied because of their beliefs or skin color. In the 2018 Congressional Election, Swift spoke out against a candidate because she believed their political stance did not align with the state of Tennessee’s beliefs and morals. Although the candidate won the election, numerous young voters registered to vote in Tennessee as a result of her influence.
Senior conservation biology major, Jesse Martin, said, “A few artists I’ve seen speak out about politics are Kacey Musgraves, Taylor, Swift and Dolly Parton. Most recently I’ve seen a lot of artists using their platform to encourage their fans to vote in the 2020 election.”
During the Black Lives Matter protests in 2020, several celebrities such as Halsey, Ariana Grande and Billie Eilish were seen supporting and marching in support of the BLM movement. Other artists who did not participate in the marches used their social media accounts to discuss the events occurring and shared GoFundMe petitions to raise money to support the movement and organization.
Because of their platform and thousands or millions of followers, celebrities are able to reach a wide audience of people. However, it is important to fact check the information that is being shared. Not all information we read will be 100% true.
Artists who are censored by their agencies or managers, they may have to be creative in the way they share their beliefs or show their support for various organizations.
Lj Hardy, a sophomore exercise science major said, “I think that due to the way that entertainment and media have taken over the way we see things, the more creative displays of political views are the ones that get the most attention and can spread awareness.”
“No matter what, critical thinking skills are important to have when you see what artists and celebrities post” Smith said, “you have to be able to discern what sources or information is true and false.”
Photo by Tate Walden
