Celebrities with Style Use Their Platforms for Political Change

As we live in difficult economic and political times with a government shutdown and battles between both US political parties, there are some stylish celebs that are using their platform to support political causes. Here are eight young, fashion-forward stars who aren’t just talking the talk they’re using their voices to make real political change.

Yara Shahidi
Known for her roles in “Black-ish” and “Grown-ish”, Yara is as committed to activism as she is to style. She co-founded the civic engagement initiative Eighteen x 18 to encourage young people to register and vote. She’s also used her red-carpet looks to make statements wearing pieces that reflect her political and cultural identity. 

Olivia Rodrigo
The GUTS singer has been a vocal advocate for reproductive rights. Through her Fund 4 Good initiative, she’s donated millions of dollars from her tour to abortion funds and gender-based violence nonprofits. She’s spoken passionately about her body autonomy, saying on stage, “Our bodies should never be in the hands of politicians.”

Zendaya
A style icon and activist, Zendaya has publicly supported racial justice and voting rights. In 2020 she lent her Instagram to share anti-racism resources, and she’s consistently encouraged young people to use their vote. 

Megan Thee Stallion
When Megan performed on “SNL,” her set featured a bold “PROTECT BLACK WOMEN” backdrop and she called out systemic injustice in her lyrics. She’s also publicly championed bodily autonomy, declaring “my body, my business” while accepting a Catalyst of Change award. 

Lil Nas X
Known for his provocative visuals and genre-bending music, Lil Nas X has also spoken on how conservative politics would harshly target queer voices if he released his hits like “Montero” in today’s climate. His style and courage challenge norms and that’s political in of itself.

Selena Gomez
Selena has used her influence in more subtle but powerful ways: supporting immigrant rights, apologizing and learning from past mistakes, and amplifying marginalized voices. Her openness about mental health and growth resonates politically with many young people.

Aidan Kohn-Murphy
Though not a traditional “celebrity” in music or film, Aidan is a Gen Z political influencer who founded Gen-Z for Change. His online organizing through TikTok and other digital platforms has mobilized young people to engage deeply in political discourse.

Hailee Steinfeld
Actress and musician Hailee has backed progressive causes like climate action and gender equality. While she speaks up less frequently than others on this list, when she does, she supports policy-oriented activism especially around sustainability and youth empowerment.

These eight standouts show it’s not just about wearing the look, it’s about using your look and your voice to push for real change.

—Tijana Ibrahimović

 

Image credits

• yara-shahidi.jpg — Credit/source: people.com.
• olivia-rodrigo.jpg — Credit/source: abcnews.com.
• zendaya.jpg — Credit/source: vanityfair.com.
• megan-thee.jpg — Credit/source: jasminebrand.com.
• lil-nas.jpg — Credit/source: Ms. Magazine.
• selena-gomez-1.jpg — Credit/source: vogue.com.
• aidan-kohn.png — Credit/source: medium.com.
• hailee-steinfeld.jpg — Credit/source: grammy.com.
• celebrities-politics-feature.jpg — Editorial image.