Silent influencers spark internet debate amid GBV awareness

Amidst the current investigation surrounding the string of murders in the East Rand, social media users and content creators have been speaking out about the matter. However, others with large platforms have been questioned for their silence.

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People have expressed outrage over the murders, their feelings of unsafety, and their disappointment in the manner in which the situation is being handled, both by the government and by influencers.

Small creators disappointed

Small creators have pointed out the silence, leading to an online debate.

One creator named RuRu shared a video summarising both sides of the conversation. She shared that people who are keeping up with the news don’t want to see GRWM (Get Ready With Me) videos and vlogs, highlighting that content creation is a full-time job, much like any other.

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Reasons why big creators are silent

Internet personality Dominic Zaca shared on TikTok some suspected reasons why some influencers with big platforms are not speaking out, sharing that many are afraid of losing out on brand deals.

A comment under Dominic’s video caught many people’s attention, with one TikTok user writing that they don’t care, as they had allegedly lost out on a sponsorship after making a GBV awareness video.

Two sides of the argument

Commenters and other creators are on very opposite ends of this argument. Others hold the stance that sometimes people expect too much from influencers and content creators. Other commentators are stating that big platforms need to speak out on issues affecting the community influencers seek support.

Also see: SA celebrities speak out against GBV amid Kempton Park killings