Social media has changed so much about the way we live, how we love, and how we get our news. A tragic shooting by a Ferguson, MO police officer of an unarmed teenager, Mike Brown, has brought about anger, rioting, shooting, looting, arson, & injuries. The town of Ferguson has been turned up side down and yet the national media seems to be silent on the issue. The local Quicktrip has been looted and burned to the ground. Store owners are rushing to their establishments to try to deter the protestors from any further theft and destruction yet CNN is still running stories on the war on Iraq, the “super Moon”, and what is happening in Gaza.

Mike Brown murder causes riots in Ferguson, MO.

People are turning to social media to see photos, videos, and other content showing what is happening in St. Louis, MO. Social media gives every average person the ability to break news before the professionals. In April, 1992 during the LA Riots the world had to wait to hear about the unrest in Los Angeles while 16 years later the world has the ability to watch the riots in real time, on-line through the eyes of the people that are living through it.

Social Media breaks news of Ferguson Riots after unarmed teen Mike Brown was gunned down by police. This photo shows Quicktrip burned down after looting.

It has been said that those that do not learn history are destined to repeat it. There are lessons to be learned on both sides of the tragedy. Perhaps the free flow of information that social media will help us all to remember history with a little more detail so that we can avoid a future riot situation. The national media has been caught asleep at the wheel on this issue but thanks to social media the story is unfolding live in our living rooms.

What newsworthy event did you find out about on social media before you heard it on the national news?