Justin Bieber is still lending his voice and his platform to support Black Lives Matter even though it appears people have already "changed the subject" on social media.
The pop star posted a photo of Black Lives Matter protesters yesterday for his 149 million Instagram followers. In the caption he wrote: "I want people to know I haven’t forgotten. I want to use the platform i have to remind people that racism is evil and it is ingrained in our culture. I want my black brothers and sisters to feel supported, seen and valued. If this bothers you I just want you to know I’m not going to stop talking about it. Ever."
In a follow-up post, Bieber urged his fans – and naysayers – not to "change the subject" and addressed the need for white allyship, writing: "You can't deny that racism is ingrained in our culture. It is straight up mean to change the subject to something you believe matters equally or more. Why can't black lives simply just matter. Don't change the subject."
The singer makes a valid point. Earlier this year, Instagram feeds were flooded with black squares and posts and stories about activism and racism. The problem is, this trivialized Black Lives Matter into a trend. And like all social media trend that are doomed to slowly die out and be replaced with something else, we're seeing the same thing happen on our timelines with Black Lives Matter.
Justin Bieber's continued posts about Black Lives Matter hold a mirror up to the performative activism of months prior and hopefully invite his millions of fans to continue to champion Black Lives Matter, not for Instagram clout but for real progress.
Join us in taking a stance against institutionalized racism. For more:
Here's how you can help tackle race-based voter suppression
10 anti-racism accounts to help you stay informed
Learn why it's more important than ever to use your vote this election
