What Does Performative Activism Mean?
Performative activism is a term that refers to when someone engages in activist movements not because they genuinely believe in the cause, but rather to gain social status or fame. It gained popularity in 2020 during the George Floyd protests, when celebrities were accused of joining the movement for the purpose of gaining fans rather than out of true commitment. This type of activism is often observed online, particularly on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok. Performative activists will post messages expressing support for a cause, but they do not take any substantial action to actually support it, such as donating money or participating in real-life protests. It is a form of inauthentic activism that is performed solely to appear “woke” to followers or the general public. While some performative activists intentionally deceive the public, others may genuinely care about the cause but communicate their beliefs in a way that comes across as insincere. Here are some examples of how to use the term performative activism:
- “All these influencers are revealing their true intentions with their performative activism.”
- “Yeah, I saw someone selling a BLM shirt with their own brand on it. That’s just an example of performative activism.”
- “Hey, have you noticed that Guy constantly posts about this cause on his feed?” “Yeah, of course… they have to at least APPEAR like they care. Performative activism is their specialty. That’s perfect follower material, right there!”
- “Hey, have you seen her posts about BLM?” “Yeah, she shares everything she comes across, it’s so annoying.” “Yeah man, that’s a perfect example of performative activism – how embarrassing.”
- “Emma Watson posted multiple black squares on her Instagram account in support of Black Lives Matter, taking care to ensure that her ‘activism’ maintained her account’s aesthetic. That’s a classic case of performative activism.”
What Does Performative Activism Mean From a Girl?
When a girl uses the term performative activism, it typically means the same thing as when anyone else uses it. Performative activism refers to engaging in activist movements for the purpose of gaining social status or fame rather than out of genuine commitment to the cause. Girls use this term in the same way as guys or anyone else would.
Girls may use the term performative activism to describe situations where individuals, including themselves, engage in activism solely for appearances or to gain followers. They may use it to criticize celebrities, influencers, or even their own friends who they believe are engaging in inauthentic activism.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Specific meaning from a girl: Girls use the term performative activism to describe when someone engages in activism for social status or fame rather than genuine commitment.
- How girls use it: Girls may use performative activism to criticize individuals who they believe are engaging in inauthentic activism or using activism solely for personal gain.
- How to reply: If someone accuses you of performative activism and you genuinely care about the cause, you can explain your actions and intentions. However, if you realize that you have been engaging in performative activism, it’s important to reflect on your actions and consider taking more meaningful steps to support the cause.
It’s worth noting that while girls may use the term performative activism similarly to everyone else, they may also have unique perspectives and experiences related to activism. It’s always interesting to hear different viewpoints and learn from each other’s experiences.
Example 1:
- Girl A: Did you see Sarah’s latest Instagram post about climate change?
- Girl B: Yeah, but I think it’s just performative activism. She’s only posting about it to look good, not because she actually cares.
Example 2:
- Girl: I’m so tired of people using performative activism to gain followers on social media. It’s not about the cause for them, it’s all about the likes and attention.
Example 3:
- Girl A: Did you hear about that influencer who claimed to be an advocate for mental health but never actually took any action?
- Girl B: Ugh, that’s such performative activism. It’s so frustrating when people use important issues for their own gain.
Example 4:
- Girl: I’m all for supporting causes, but I can’t stand when people engage in performative activism just to make themselves look good. It’s so disingenuous.
Example 5:
- Girl A: Did you see that celebrity’s post about poverty? They’re always talking about it but never actually do anything to help.
- Girl B: Yeah, it’s definitely performative activism. They just want to appear socially conscious without putting in any real effort.
What Does Performative Activism Mean From a Guy?
When a guy uses the term performative activism, it could imply different things. It could signify a criticism towards someone, including himself, for engaging in activism solely for appearances or personal gain. Alternatively, it could be used as a way to express frustration with the concept of performative activism itself.
Here are some possible meanings and perspectives when a guy uses the term performative activism:
- Criticism towards inauthentic activism: A guy might use performative activism to criticize individuals who engage in activism solely for social status or fame. He may see it as disingenuous and insincere, and may call out those who engage in such behavior.
- Self-reflection: A guy might use performative activism to reflect on his own actions and question whether he has been engaging in inauthentic activism. He may use the term to hold himself accountable and strive to be more genuine in his activism efforts.
- Frustration with the concept: A guy might use performative activism to express frustration with the prevalence of inauthentic activism in society. He may feel that it undermines genuine efforts to bring about meaningful change and detracts from the true purpose of activism.
If someone accuses a guy of performative activism, he can take the opportunity to reflect on his actions and intentions. If he genuinely cares about the cause, he can explain his commitment and take steps to demonstrate his genuine support. However, if he realizes that he has been engaging in performative activism, it’s important for him to reflect on his actions and consider taking more meaningful steps to support the cause.
It’s worth noting that while guys may use the term performative activism similarly to girls or anyone else, they may also have unique perspectives and experiences related to activism. It’s always interesting to hear different viewpoints and learn from each other’s experiences.
Example 1:
- Guy 1: Did you see that guy’s Instagram post about climate change?
- Guy 2: Yeah, he’s all talk and no action. Total performative activism.
Example 2:
- Guy 1: Check out this influencer who’s suddenly advocating for LGBTQ+ rights.
- Guy 2: Yeah, it’s just performative activism to gain more followers.
Example 3:
- Guy 1: I saw this guy at the protest holding a sign, but he left after taking a few pictures.
- Guy 2: Classic case of performative activism. He just wanted to be seen there.
Example 4:
- Guy 1: This celebrity donated a small amount of money to a charity and made a big deal out of it.
- Guy 2: That’s just performative activism. They’re only doing it for the publicity.
Example 5:
- Guy: Have you noticed how some guys suddenly started posting about feminism?
- Girl: Yeah, it feels like they’re just jumping on the bandwagon for attention.
- Guy: Exactly! It’s all performative activism.
What Does Performative Activism Mean Sexually?
No, performative activism does not have a sexual or NSFW meaning. It refers to engaging in activist movements for social status or fame rather than genuine belief in the cause.
Origin of Performative Activism
The origins of the term “performative activism” are not clear. It seems to have emerged in popular usage in 2020 during the George Floyd protests, when the concept of inauthentic activism gained attention. It is possible that the term was coined to describe this phenomenon and highlight the insincerity of some individuals’ involvement in activist movements. However, it is important to note that the term may have existed before 2020 but gained widespread recognition during that time. Without further information, it is difficult to determine if performative activism is a derived word or if it originated from a popular typo like “HODL.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Slangs similar to Performative Activism
The terms MILF, FWB, GREEK, KITTY, MOTOS, MOTSS, LAYBY, LTR, MLTR, MONKEY, NBSB, and NGSB are not similar to performative activism because they do not involve engaging in activist movements for social status or fame. These terms are unrelated to the concept of performative activism and instead refer to various sexual relationships, gender identities, and dating experiences.
Is Performative Activism A Bad Word?
No, “performative activism” is not a bad word or a vulgar word. It refers to a specific type of activism where individuals participate in activist movements not because they genuinely believe in the cause, but because they want to gain social standing or popularity. It became popular during the George Floyd protests in 2020 when celebrities were accused of joining in for fame rather than genuine commitment. While performative activism can be seen as disingenuous or insincere, it is not inherently vulgar or offensive.
Is Performative Activism a Typo or Misspelling?
Performative activism is a term that refers to engaging in activist movements not out of genuine belief, but to gain social status or fame, often observed online on platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
