Social media has become an important platform for people to connect with each other, share their lives, and express themselves.
It can also be used to spread misinformation and harmful ideas about marginalized communities like the LGBTQ+ community. In this essay, I will discuss how social media platforms can serve as sites of queer pedagogy, where individuals can learn about gender and sexuality, while also presenting challenges for those who are trying to create positive spaces online.
One way that social media can act as a site of queer pedagogy is through representation. Platforms like TikTok have become popular among young people looking for queer content creators who challenge societal norms and offer alternative perspectives on gender and sexuality. By following these accounts, users can gain a better understanding of what it means to be queer and the various identities within the community.
Transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney's transition videos were viewed over 10 million times on TikTok and helped educate many viewers about what it means to be transgender.
Social media can also act as a vehicle for misinformation. Anti-LGBTQ+ organizations and individuals use social media to spread hateful rhetoric and promote false information about the community. This can lead to harm by reinforcing negative stereotypes and creating a hostile environment for queer people. Content creators should be aware of this when posting content and ensure they are providing accurate information and supporting diverse voices.
Social media has the potential to both promote queer education and disseminate harmful ideas about marginalized communities. It is important for content creators to take responsibility in creating positive and inclusive spaces online and providing accurate information about topics related to gender and sexuality. As platforms continue to evolve, there will need to be increased efforts made to address the challenges facing queer communities and create safe spaces for all users.
How can social media act as both a site of queer pedagogy and a vehicle for misinformation, and what ethical responsibilities do content creators have toward diverse audiences?
In an age where information is available at our fingertips with just a click, it has become essential that individuals are critical thinkers when consuming and sharing news on platforms like TikTok. Social media serves as a great tool for providing users with educational videos from peers who may be more relatable than traditional sources such as teachers or professors, but it also opens up opportunities for disseminating false claims.