The Hate on Social Media is Real

The Hate on Social Media is Real

The Hate Is Real

At one point in time, hate was contained within the homes of families that passed on years of ignorance from one generation to the next. Then came social media and folks were given the green light to spread hate among the masses.

Some do it anonymously, but there are also those that stand on their word while hiding behind a screen. In this day and age, you can’t post anything online without experiencing hate.

Poster: “Where can I find authentic tamales?”
Comments: “Let us know so we can send ice!”

Poster: “Any info on PRIDE events?”
Comments: “You’re going to perish in hell!”

Poster: “Where can I find black-owned businesses to support?”
Comments: “This is so racist if I asked for a white-owned business this would never get approved!”

Poster: “Looking for a female doctor.”
Comments: “No, just try this man”

Poster: “I feel comfortable with a doctor that looks like me!”
Comments: “So a white doctor isn’t good enough?”

Poster: “How do I apply for food stamps?”
Comments: “Get a job!”

Poster: “I need help!”
Comments: “Call and get on government assistance. What do you want us to do?”

Poster: “Looking for leads! Who’s hiring?”
Comments: “Get your lazy ass off the internet and go look!”

There are people who harbor so much hate in their hearts it’s sickening. Those who are not minorities often take offense to things that don’t involve them. Forgetting there actually was a time they were outcast.

Finding the perfect pasta for an Italian dish in Cajun Country can be hard, having a mixed grandchild and needing to learn about hair care may seem intimidating, standing in the Asian Market feeling foreign because you can’t find anything, or embracing a same-sex marriage within your strict family. We’ve all needed something outside of what is readily available. However, asking on social media can make you not want to seek any type of advice.

People could simply use etiquette when it comes to social media. If you never needed assistance, count yourself lucky, but no need to bring down the next person. Something doesn’t align with your beliefs? Lovingly scroll on rather than being the judge and the jury. It’s gotten to the point you can’t read news articles without being disheartened by the ignorant comments of hate being spread. Why must people be so cruel?

Front Page News

Protecting my peace means scrolling past certain articles because of the content. Have you ever read the comment section from your local news outlet? They’re often filled with hate toward minorities including African Americans and Hispanic people. Comments like, “usual suspects, they’re all animals, and they always fit the profile” or “go back to your country, they shouldn’t be here anyway, you know they’re getting a free ride” are constantly posted. Sick views, hate.

Reading these comments silently wanting to reply, yet we’re forced to sit back saying nothing because we actually have jobs, choose to remain dignified, or simply know that nothing we say will change their minds. Racism, sexism, homophobia, and hate aren’t dead! Socially, they’re on the rise!

The South Doesn’t Have To Rise Again

Social media has made it easier for anyone to comment or post anonymously and the hateful comments are on the rise. “The South” doesn’t have to rise again when keyboard warriors can fight behind a screen. Men can attack women for what they wear saying they deserve the way they are treated, Christians can condemn LGBTQ to hell with their Bible versus, the educated can mock those with little to no education, predators can save the pictures of under age children they lust after, all from their phone or computer.

Put A Little Love In Your Heart

Now is the time to come together and combat here with love. We don’t have to poison our minds with the words of others. Avoiding reading certain articles, not arguing with those who have a difference in options, not engaging will save you time and energy.

June is filled with love for minorities. Check on your brother, call your dad, take your husband to dinner in observance of men’s mental health month. So many times men fight silent battles they’re ashamed to speak up about. Mental Health Matters!

PRIDE celebrates LGBTQ+ community and their freedom to love out loud. The ability to love whom you want is a gift that should be shared with others without shame. Get out and support by attending one of the local events. PRIDE events are taking place right here in Acadiana daily.

The Acadiana Queer Collective has a host of events if you are interested in celebrating.

Seeing so many organizations coming together to support the LGBTQ+ Community and give them a safe space to celebrate is a great example of combating ignorance. Live in color and love out loud.

Let Freedom Ring

There are many reasons to celebrate Juneteenth and the joy of freedom, heritage, and the achievements of African Americans.

No longer celebrated only in the Black community, this joyous day has gained recognition by others including celebrations in Lafayette. Catch the beautiful story telling when The Juneteenth Story is told June 19 and 20. Be sure to purchase tickets for The Juneteenth Story. To find info on Juneteenth events this week, click here.

Follow We Will Rebuild The North Side. The predominantely black community of The Northside of Lafayette is suffering. It’s time to stop the gentrification and pour into the hood. Clean up the community!

The End

Once upon a time Lafayette was voted the nicest city around. What good is it to show hospitality to visitors while spewing hate toward our neighbors? In a time when arguments can spread instantly on social media, now is the time to spread love. Stop being racist, stop being hateful, and start treating people with dignity and respect. Racism, sexism, homophobia, and hate have no place here. Spread love.