Lately I’ve been finding it hard to go onto social media, as it seems like I’m constantly bombarded with hateful posts. I don’t think people realize that when they like or comment on a post on Facebook, it appears in the news feed. Maybe they only half-read the headline, or clicked “like” by mistake. But, at the moment, it seems as though many folks are endorsing articles and posts that spew hate and cause offense.
To me, liking an offensive post is just as bad as writing it yourself. Over the past few weeks, I’ve seen long diatribes using hurtful slurs about Caitlyn Jenner and attacks on the young teens involved in the McKinney police drama. Others are throwing their support behind the Duggars, using foul language to bad-mouth politicians and celebrities they disagree with, and cheering on a couple who have threatened to get divorced should gay marriage pass in Australia. Good riddance.
Yes, it’s all part of free speech. Yes, everyone is entitled to their opinion. But does this behavior belong in civility? Not at all. And, you must wonder what sort of impression you are giving others. Perhaps you don’t care, but you should. Anyone could be looking at your profile and weighing whether or not to hire you, invite you out, or keep you as a friend. Do you really want to be known as someone who endorses offensive messages when there are so many more positive things to focus on?