In today’s world, we have transformed the concepts of inclusion and diversity by breaking physical boundaries with online networking. Before, I saw PLN’s as platforms where we posted about our lives, shared thoughts, and connected with people who think similar to us. Now, I feel that PLN’s act as tools for us to engage with diverse perspectives that may be completely different from our own. Inclusion in this sense, means giving space to everyone, no matter their background, to be able to share their voice and ideas.
Because of social media’s wide reach and accessibility, they offer a great opportunity to message with all kinds of people. Although we sometimes see the nastiest online disputes between people in the news, most of the time, discussions are constructive and positive, and show growth and empathy from all parties. On a 1:1 form, they become a facet for conversation, where you can converse nearly the same way you do face to face. On forums and comment sections, you can discuss with tons of different people to grow your perspective based on the perspective of others.
Because the interactions on social media are instant and in real-time, it encourages open conversation from everyone involved, and always offers a space for a new contributor to join in. It allows all people to engage with online communications to whatever degree of productivity they feel. At the same time, this environment is so open, that it amplifies negative voices, the same it does positive voices. Because of this, it is sometimes tough to not get lost in a forum of hate because three people who don’t like whatever subject have taken over the discussion. This is why it is so important to moderate discussions and contribute to discussions in a respectful and understanding way.
PLN’s also allow us to share the posts of others on our own platforms, in turn, amplifying their voice and their ideas. Not only does this give more views to whatever content they made, but it also shows people what you see to be important or “good”. It allows people to see how similar they are to you, but it also lets you see how people’s views may differ from yours. By making PLN’s diverse and inclusive, it grows the perspectives of privileged people, to understand the views, ideas, and experiences of underprivileged people. It gives a much more accessible voice to those who have systematically been restricted in their ability to share and contribute to the majority opinion on various topics. In doing this, it aids those who are privileged in being better allies and advocates to make our society more equitable
