As digital activists, teens of color turn to social media to fight for a more just world

Self-expression and storytelling are among the primary objectives that young aspiring activists seek to achieve online. FG Trade via Getty Images

When it comes to social media use among young people, very often the concern is about potential harm.

Parents, policymakers and others worry that online platforms like Instagram and TikTok may compromise children’s privacy, threaten their safety, undermine their mental health and make them susceptible to social media addiction and cyberbullying, among other problems.