Ashley Jackson, a renowned producer, writer, actress, and impact leader, recently delivered a powerful speech at a forum to reflect on the state of political, social, and emotional turmoil in recent months.
Jackson shared the video of her speech at the Persist Network on Instagram, accompanied by a post expressing the weight of the current moment and the critical need for movements that endure.
In a candid and reflective tone, Jackson recounted her journey, revealing that while she’s been quieter online, she has been actively listening, learning, and working behind the scenes to ensure that movements are not only visible but sustainable.
“I don’t have all the answers, but one truth has become clear: If we want a movement that endures, we must be intentional about where we place our trust,” she wrote.
She stated that technology can be a powerful tool, but it should not serve as the foundation of any movement.
Jackson’s words were further amplified in a speech she delivered at a recent forum, which was shared as a video on her Instagram account. In her address, she critiqued the role of algorithms in shaping our perceptions and influencing social and political discourse.
“The algorithm is not neutral. It is an architect of perception. It dictates not just what we see, but how we feel about what we see. It tells us what deserves our outrage and what we should ignore,” she said, cautioning against the dangers of relying solely on digital platforms for organizing social change.
Jackson further expanded on her concerns about the dangers of depending on technology for social movements, calling attention to how algorithms amplify echo chambers and distort moral clarity.
“If we are not careful, we will mistake spectacle for substance. We will mistake visibility for power. We will mistake performance for progress,” she warned.
Her remarks underscore a growing concern that the very tools used to build movements might also limit their scope. Jackson raised an important question: If the apps disappear tomorrow, would our coalition still stand?
For her, this is not an anti-technology message but a call for more intention and control when using these tools. “A movement sustained only by an algorithm is a movement that can be erased by one,” she said.
Through this reflection and call to action, Jackson encourages fellow activists to continue building coalitions in physical spaces and emphasizes that while digital platforms can support activism, they should never replace the foundational human connection and collective effort needed for lasting change.
Jackson concluded by reaffirming her commitment to the cause, stating:
“I’m still finding my balance, but I’m here. And I’ll keep showing up—both on and beyond these platforms.”
Her message resonates deeply in a time when social movements, particularly those advocating for racial justice, equality, and political reform, are increasingly navigating the complexities of the digital age.
