Published By: Nibandh Vinod
Last Updated: June 30, 2023, 07:00 IST
Social media has permitted people and information to travel without bounds. (Image: Shutterstock)
Social media is a double-edged sword. While it has opened up new avenues for expression and collaboration, it has also given rise to challenges
SOCIAL MEDIA DAY 2023: Social Media Day is observed on June 30 every year. It serves as a reminder of the profound impact social media has had on global communication. Social media has changed the game by bringing people together from all over the world, assisting companies in building their brands and emerging as a popular platform for content creation. It has undeniably brought individuals from diverse backgrounds closer together.
The significance of this day lies in recognising that social media is a double-edged sword. While it has opened up new avenues for expression and collaboration, it has also given rise to challenges such as the proliferation of misinformation, the spread of fake news, and the prevalence of cybercrimes. By acknowledging these drawbacks, Social Media Day aims to promote a balanced understanding of technology’s benefits and pitfalls.
Social Media Day 2023: Significance
This day holds significant importance as it commemorates the impact and evolution of social media since its inception. The inaugural celebration of Social Media Day by Mashable on June 30, 2010, served as a milestone in recognizing the global reach and transformative power of this communication medium. Mashable is renowned for utilising social media to link disparate fandoms, movements, and cultures. Sixdegrees, the first social media site, was established by Andrew Weinreich and launched in 1997.
Users could name their friends and family connections on the website, which also included a number of intriguing features like bulletin boards, school affiliations, and profiles. After it shut down in 2001, people started using platforms like Friendster, MySpace, and Facebook for communication. The popularity of the medium introduced many other sites we use today, such as Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Snapchat.
Social media has permitted people and information to travel without bounds. Connections are just a click away. Along with making our lives easier, it has increased the amount of fake news that is transmitted on a daily basis. Hence, this day is a chance to utilise this boon for the advancement of the community and educate others about the problems associated with the misuse of social media.
Social Media Day 2023: How to Celebrate
To commemorate this special event, individuals have the opportunity to participate in virtual initiatives aimed at promoting data privacy awareness and fostering connections with individuals worldwide. Engaging in online campaigns dedicated to educating people about effectively countering disinformation is another meaningful way to contribute. Additionally, numerous influencers and companies organize quizzes and contests as a means of celebrating this day.
Social Media Day 2023: Quotes
- “Social media is not a media. The key is to listen, engage, and build relationships.” — David Alston.
- “Think about what people are doing on Facebook today. They’re keeping up with their friends and family, but they’re also building an image and identity for themselves, which in a sense is their brand. They’re connecting with the audience that they want to connect to. It’s almost a disadvantage if you’re not on it now.” — Mark Zuckerberg.
- “Social media is the ultimate equaliser. It gives a voice and a platform to anyone willing to engage.” — Amy Jo Martin.
- “Social marketing eliminates the middlemen, providing brands the unique opportunity to have a direct relationship with their customers.” — Bryan Weiner.
- “Content is fire. Social media is gasoline.” — Jay Baer.
