Is celebrity activism just frivolous stunts for publicity?
While there is a potential danger of celebrities making matters completely caricatured problems, there is in fact a beneficial side of celebrity activism. As an avid music lover, I believe that celebrities (musicians especially) have a unique ability to reach out to, appeal and inspire younger generations; all of this has the latency to make differences in the world. Fast.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-iFl4qhBsE?rel=0&w=740&h=555]
Emma Watson’s fantastic speech explaining the ‘He for She’ campaign has illuminated the future of celebrity activism. Stars not only have the lurid popularity that so many politicians lack, but they also display the empathy needed to manifest enthusiasm amongst young people. Emma should undoubtedly be applauded for her contributions as Goodwill Ambassador, however her susceptibility to emotions and interests – of not just Feminists but Equalists – deserves a standing ovation.
If Emma Watson can cause such a stir, imagine the results that our musicians could generate! Zealous albums and songs written containing such liberating lyrics clearly habituate the possibilities. Take George Harrison’s legendary Concert for Bangladesh in 1971: it raised an amazing $240,000. Surely the bands of today would have similar impacts?
For these reasons, empathy and understanding, celebrities should not be questioned for getting involved in international issues: they should be encouraged. A world where common views and interests of real people can be engendered through the contributions of our heroes? No objections.
Words by Alicia Carpenter