Pop and Purpose: Michael Jackson as a Professional Activism Influencer
At seven years old, surrounded by Barbies and cassette tapes, I was steadfast in two beliefs: a dream to save the world and a whimsical desire to marry Michael Jackson. A chance trip to Las Vegas recently brought me to the Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil show at the Mandalay Bay. On the surface, it promised entertainment; yet for me, it became a deeply meaningful experience. Amid the breathtaking performances set to
Michael Jackson's unforgettable music, I realized how much his dedication and professional ethos had shaped my own approach to work and life philosophy, despite any controversies surrounding him. This experience highlighted how his legacy could inspire others similarly. Michael Jackson's work goes far beyond simple entertainment, carrying with it a profound commitment to advocating for social justice and environmental stewardship. And, no matter our careers, each of us has the power to dedicate our work to fostering positive social change and engaging actively in our communities.
Michael Jackson, in my view, remains unrivaled as an artist whose music not only compels us to dance but also to embrace our roles as humanitarians, agents of peace, and protectors of our planet. While the charts frequently celebrate songs about love, heartache, and partying (and don't get me wrong, I hold a special place in my heart for the poetic genius of Bob Dylan and Bob Marley), they rarely invite us to dance with purpose.
Yet, Jackson did just that. He gave us "Man in the Mirror" and "Heal the World"—songs that inspire self-reflection and action; "We Are the World" and "Will You Be There"—ballads that unite and comfort; "They Don’t Care About Us," "Scream," and "Black or White"—tracks that challenge and critique societal injustices; not to mention the brotherly-love anthem "Can You Feel It." In addition to his on-stage advocacy, Michael worked tirelessly to promote cause-worthy initiatives and donated resources to organizations and people in need. See the full list
Wearing an Olodum t-shirt while filming "They Don't Care About Us," Michael Jackson symbolically bridges music and activism, spotlighting the vibrant Afro-Brazilian culture and their struggles against racial injustice and police brutality.
Michael Jackson's "Earth Song" video is a powerful visual narrative that addresses environmental degradation, deforestation, animal cruelty, and the impact of human actions on the planet.
This realization reaffirms my belief: no matter our profession, we possess the power to make a difference. Every company can be more than a company; every professional team can be a collective of dreamers and doers, marketing mavens and communication connoisseurs, and content creators that not only uplifts spirits but also champions calls to action. So, as we continue to weave our narratives, let's draw inspiration from the King of Pop's legacy. Let's craft stories that resonate with positivity, create campaigns that make people matter, and, most importantly, make every professional step we take a dance move toward making the world a better place.
