Social Media Plus Gen Z Equals Continuous Backlash
In an era in which social media is prevalent and every move made is monitored by other users, it is almost impossible to always remain perfect in the eyes of the public. One misstep can cause backlash not even twenty four hours later or come back to haunt someone for years. Second chances, it seems, are rarely given in today’s society.
The sensitivity of Generation Z (Gen Z) is constantly debated, some saying that Gen Z gets offended by just about everything. Yet, others believe that growing up witnessing a great deal of violence, such as the influx of school shootings and suicides, has desensitized them.
While the sensitivity levels of Gen Z seem to be in a weird paradox, one thing’s for certain: they never seem to give anyone a break on social media.
If someone were to record themselves simply saying their thoughts in a manner people may not like, the post would go viral, comments would be filled with backlash, and following that would be mockery by other users.
Just in April, Justin Bieber pulled an April Fool’s prank, in which he made it seem like his wife, Hailey Bieber, was pregnant and bearing his child. The prank resulted in controversy and was claimed to be insensitive to women with infertility issues.
Other celebrities have received backlash for resurfaced statements that were made years ago.
Artist Cardi B has faced criticism for saying she used to drug and rob men during her days as a stripper. She responded saying on an Instagram post, “I made the choices I did at the time because I had very limited options. I have a past that I can’t change we all do.”
Whether an incident happened recently, or fifteen years ago, it won’t go unnoticed, appearing in retweets and joked about in memes. Sometimes an individual will receive hate and criticism for a statement they’ve apologized profusely and faced consequences for twenty years later.
“For them it might have been a lifetime ago and they might have changed. But when it resurfaces, it doesn’t seem that way to us,” said Abigaelle Barreauny, a sophomore at MLEC.
This doesn’t go to say that the person doesn’t deserve part of the backlash. However, for one to hear a comment he or she made at age sixteen, and be held accountable for it the rest of their lives is simply unfair and unnecessary.
Not giving second chances ultimately limits growth within society. When the media is always reminding one of a mistake they’ve made, it becomes increasingly difficult to move on.
A society that is unforgiving and stuck on the past doesn’t leave room for improvement. It’s time that after criticizing someone for their wrongdoings, people either move on or let it go. Everyone needs room to grow.
Image source: Getty Images
Inside an Optimist's Mind 