The #YouTubeWakeUp meme serves as a powerful visual tool for creators and viewers to express frustration with the platform's policy shifts, algorithm updates, and demonetization practices. Originating as a hashtag movement on social media, it evolved into a versatile meme template used to demand transparency and better treatment for independent creators. The meme typically features bold text calling out the tech giant, highlighting specific grievances such as the removal of the dislike button or unfair copyright strikes. It has become a symbol of community solidarity, used whenever the platform implements a controversial change that impacts the user experience or creator livelihoods.