Twitter and controversy
If you click this link, it will take you to a deeply offensive picture. If you can steel yourself, please do so. I wonder whether you will be similarly offended? I take exception to all of the following:
- The Union flag as a backdrop to this invective and offensive material. I am not a great patriot, but I resent the idea that the flag with which I have grown up should be pressed into service in this way. Mr Griffin does not speak for me or my country.
- Mr Griffin’s presumption to speak on behalf of “meek and forgiving Christians” – I have never seen any evidence that he either represents or understands either of those descriptors.
- The incitement to “confront Muslims” is inflammatory and utterly out of place. For the most part Twitter is a positive place and such words are poison.
- The tick. In fact, you can’t see the tick – as Twitter have removed the verified status since I visited this page last night. Good for them!
Debates will go on and on, no doubt, about whether Twitter gives a platform to Mr Griffin’s kind of invective. The thing is, whilst it may be a breeding ground for hatred it also provides an open space where prejudice can be seen in all its dark colours, and where human goodness can shine like a bright garment on a Summer’s day. Twitter didn’t create Mr Griffin, but it may well provide the kind of 360 degree space where his views can be scrutinised.
Last Summer, headline hungry reporters wanted to blame social media for fanning the flames of rioting and unrest. Ironically it was that same social media which brought people out in their hundreds armed with brooms to clear up the mess.
I don’t want Twitter to be a place where nastiness thrives and prejudice is trumpeted. However, it is up to me to ensure that it is not so. Care to join me?
Why not start by using your #followfriday (#ff) to affirm and encourage someone whose views you do not necessarily share but whose positive contribution to society you can affirm?
