Magic Johnson’s retirement speech was much more than an announcement of his retirement. Johnson told the public about his contracting of the HIV virus and how it is forcing him to leave the game he loves. This informative speech is a form of public advocacy because of the motivation he spoke with. Magic Johnson spoke to the audience as if he wanted to try and stop the virus from spreading further. He talked about the importance of being careful and what people should do to protect themselves. Although this is not a usual form of public advocacy, it is still a person persuading others to be well informed and careful while also telling his audience about the harmful and life threatening effects of this disease.
The issue Johnson talks about is definitely a form of civil engagement because of the way he is informing the public about the HIV disease. Since this retirement speech, Johnson has been involved in numerous community acts to help spread knowledge on the subject. Being a public icon in the sports world, Magic definitely helps contribute to the prevention of this terrible virus. Magic has gone so far to creating his own foundation called the “Magic Johnson Foundation” which raises awareness and helps combat HIV.
This is a great example of the relationship between celebrity/our celebrity culture and public advocacy/civic engagement. Might we be more inclined to support/take an interest in an issue that is endorsed by a celebrity? Thoughts? Examples?
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