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Black Lives Matter Movement (sparked by murder of George Floyd)
This movement began before George Floyd's death and has continued into the modern day. The #blacklivesmatter tag spread on Facebook and Twitter. Marches were held across the country to raise awareness and protest police brutality. -
Spread of COVID-19 Vaccine Misinformation
When the COVID-19 was released to the public, misinformation about the vaccine's safety, effectiveness, and side effects spread across Facebook, Instagram, and Tiktok. The country was working towards a return to normal, but quarantine lead to prolonged social media exposure coupled with social isolation. -
Depp v. Heard
A defamation case filed by Johnny Depp against his ex-wife Amber Heard became a social media movement after the trial was broadcast. Heard accused Depp of physical and emotional abuse, with Depp counter-suing for malicious defamation. The case brought up discussions about the #MeToo movement, partner violence, and the court of public opinion. -
Taylor Swift's Eras Tour
A year-and-a-half long concert tour became a social movement through social media. Taylor Swift's first Eras Tour performance was on March 17, 2023. By the time the tour ended in December 2024, fans were attending the concert in themed costumes and sharing friendship bracelets with each other. Early concert posts went viral, leading to thousands of fans joining the movement to celebrate this unique concert experience. -
Ballerina Farm, Beauty Pageants, and the Reign of Tradwives
In January 2024, Hannah Neeleman (known by brand name "Ballerina Farm" on social media) competed in the Mrs. World beauty pageant twelve days after giving birth to her eighth child. Social media erupted in conversation about gender roles, motherhood, and marriage. The Ballerina Farm brand has become part of a wider return to traditional living, self-reliance, and conservative values.