Equality: Voices in Union

Key Issues

Topic 6: Effective counter narratives and social media

About this topic

Social media are near-instant communication tools that can help social justice movements raise awareness, amplify seldom heard voices and bring people together who otherwise might never find one another.

Social media activism also risks greater misunderstandings, due to the nature of short soundbite sharing rather than deeper conversation – and may lead to unwanted attention, cause misunderstandings, and can expose individuals in ways that are detrimental to their wellbeing.

Social media is also used by those who seek to divide us, spread misinformation, or attack others from the privacy of their computer screens.

Effective social media use can be incredibly powerful when consideration is given to the strengths and pitfalls of these platforms.

In this learning, we will consider approaches to social media, and some points for consideration. As an example, we will look at drafting a social media post about anti-racism, using X (formerly Twitter) as an example.

Winning the narrative

Before considering a plan for social media content, please read the following guide by Aso Communications, on winning against right-wing scapegoating on race and trans youth. The guide helpfully considers common pitfalls when responding to far-right narratives, and forms a foundation for thinking about strategic communication for equality.

Click here for the guide by aso communications

Reflect on Padlet: What stood out for you within the guidance?

2. Activity – draft a social media post

The purpose of this activity is not to post anything, but just to have a go!

  1. Open and create an account on X, you can set this to private if you do not already have a X account. This is just for practice! If you would prefer not to create a X account, you can use another social media platform of your choice, or just type out your message in Microsoft Word.
  2. Consider the purpose of your post – what from your previous learning topic, is a message you want to share with members?
  3. X limits each post to 280 characters, so construct your message within this limit and consider accessible language, finishing on an action-oriented message.
  4. Are there any visuals that could go with your post, that could boost it? Google image search to include these.
  5. Once you have constructed your post, take a screenshot of your draft, and share to Padlet!

Archive Material

View our archived material on Fair-Work within Scotland’s education system