The communities formed by networked audiences not only start new conversations between members living across the globe, but they also can have real impacts on politics and activism. Fandom Forward, formerly known as the Harry Potter Alliance, is an organization that was formed in 2005 by fans of JK Rowling’s Harry Potter series that has initiated numerous global activism campaigns.
Fandom’s Forward Mission Statement is:
“Fandom Forward turns fans into heroes. We use the power of story and popular culture to make activism accessible and sustainable. Through experiential training and real life campaigns, we develop compassionate, skillful leaders who learn to approach our world’s problems with joy, creativity, and commitment to equity.”
– fandomforward.org/mission
They have spread awareness and raised significant funds for human rights campaigns, emergency relief in Haiti, LGBTQ+ rights, and many other matters, having chapters in over 35 countries.
Some of their campaigns listed on their website include:
- Immigrant Justice
- LGBTIA+ Equality
- Education & Libraries
- Gender Equity
- Climate Crisis
- Media Reform
- Youth Advocacy
Furthermore, networked audiences formed on social media have been instrumental in the formation of movements such as the #MeToo movement that has gained global attention.
