How GenZ Duets the News on TikTok

Mar 19, 2021

10:30am – 11:00am CT

In recent months, discourse on the role social media plays in news consumption has focused on how it can be a vector of disinformation and divisiveness, rather than good-faith conversation. Gen-Z news consumers on TikTok are demonstrating that it's possible to engage with platforms, with news publishers, and with each other in a radically different way. With humor and optimism, young people across the political spectrum are creatively harnessing this video-first medium to participate in authentic conversations, seek out facts, and shape their views on important issues and elections. Hear from NowThis’ Ian McKenna (@nowthispolitics), The Washington Post’s Dave Jorgenson (@washingtonpost), and Creator, Actor, and Human Rights Activist Jackie James (@fatraco0n) on the tactics publishers are using to build relationships with young audiences on TikTok, and the content that moves audiences to action.

Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.

photo of Jackie James
Jackie James

Palette Management

photo of Dave Jorgenson
Dave Jorgenson

The Washington Post

photo of Ian McKenna
Ian McKenna

NowThis Media

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