https://www.bbc.com/news/technology-51474114
TikTok, the popular short-form video platform, is in trouble again this month for reportedly removing the videos of many transgender users. While TikTok claims that some videos were removed due to depictions of smoking and nudity, TikTok has offered no explanation as to why other less controversial posts have been removed from the platform. As a result, many members of the trans community who use the app, and the LGBT charity Stonewall, have openly criticized TikTok for this censorship.
Personally, I find this news very disappointing. Many members of the LGBTQ+ community use platforms like TikTok as a safe and reliable platform to express themselves, their journeys, and their opinions. It’s sad to see such a popular platform like TikTok who claims they are “…proud to be a platform for positive and creative expression for our diverse community of users” censoring videos of trans people. What’s worse is that TikTok can’t even explain why the videos are being deleted. Is TikTok’s super sensitive censorship algorithm to blame for this? Could it be that TikTok is purposely deleting these videos, but they don’t want to admit it as to not come off as transphobic? If TikTok becomes deemed no longer a safe and reliable space for members of the LGBTQ+ community to express themselves and feel represented, what other platforms will be left for them to use? I really hope that TikTok starts to do a better job soon at making the trans community and the LGBTQ+ community feel safe and uncensored.
LIS 4022 Spring 2020 