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This work examines the development, implementation, and impact of Provenance Proof, a blockchain platform developed for marginalized members of the artisanal gemstone mining industry. We explore the origin and motivation of the program, its growth and impact, and the challenges that continue to hinder its mission. Using an interpretive qualitative methodology, we make use of data from artisanal miners, NGOs, blockchain technology firms, jewelry designers, retailers, and others in the form of interviews, media, websites, presentations, and gemstone conferences. We find that despite strong funding and technical development, sustained usage among artisanal miners remains low. We identify both positive steps and challenges to successful and sustained deployment and augment the macro-level Framework of Blockchain-Supported Development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital activism, political activism mediated by digital technologies, offers the promise of increased visibility and political power for marginalized groups. Yet, this has not been the case outside of a few exceptions such as Black Lives Matter. This paper offers theoretical, conceptual critical research that explores why successful digital activism may elude marginalized groups. We ask why many marginalized groups have been unable to harness the power of digital activism. We suggest that greater reliance on smartphones for internet access in marginalized groups may be at the heart of the problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]