By Pendragon
As a young masculine presenting woman living in Nigeria, i noticed the change. Lately, as I scrolled through TikTok, I noticed more people like me confidently expressing their true selves. Being Young, queer, Africans and embracing their identities online.
From an effeminate boy kissing their partner to a lesbian couple doing a viral dance and then a bearded individual giving makeup tutorials, the diversity is refreshing. Notably, the positive, supportive comments with red hearts outweigh the negative ones in the comment section, symbolising a growing, loving community. Witnessing the growing acceptance among Gen Z and Gen Alphas is truly remarkable and heartwarming.
But on this wednesday morning, while scrolling through instagram, i stumbled on the headline “Popular transgender Tiktoker Area mama murdered in Abuja last night. The post further explained how her head was bashed in and she was stripped naked and dumped on the highway in Abuja. My heart broke, and I felt cold.
We remembered a podcast she was on earlier last year. She spoke about who she was and her sex work. She was bold and proud, and I was both scared and proud of her. Shortly after that podcast, I saw a video of her covered in scars from a recent transphobic attack. I thought. Did she ever report to the police?
The unfortunate murder of Area Mama sheds light on the issue of homophobia in Nigeria, supported by the SSMPA. This incident, which gained attention due to her popularity on TikTok, is just one example of the numerous acts of violence and injustice faced by the LGBTQ community in Nigeria and across Africa.
Area Mama has emerged as one of many queer creators who are pioneering a new era of activism. In the countries we inhabit, where openly protesting our identities poses significant risks, we are empowered to foster visibility for individuals like ourselves by embracing our authenticity online without apology. Social media has been celebrated in recent years as a source of queer content and connection for young people, particularly youth who may not have access to in-person community.
As we applaud social media for their contribution, it is essential to acknowledge the risks these platforms pose to LGBTQ users and creators. One of the most pressing threats is the prevalence and severity of hate speech and harassment that often goes unchecked on social media. Posts about LGBTQ individuals or activities frequently attract a barrage of hateful comments, creating an environment that fosters violence and discrimination against
queer communities. Furthermore, there are documented instances where anti-LBGTQ rhetoric on social media translates into real-world harm. A recent study by GLAAD’s Social Media Safety Program has classified most social media platforms as unsafe for LGBTQ users. While specific platforms are failing to address this dangerous hate and misinformation adequately, others disproportionately suppress LGBTQ content through practices such as removal, demonetization, and shadowbanning. Despite having years, if not decades, to demonstrate responsible content curation and moderation, these social media companies have prioritised profit over public safety.
The study also offers several insightful recommendations, including the strengthening and enforcement of existing policies that protect LGBTQ individuals from hate, harassment, disinformation, and the suppression of legitimate LGBTQ expression.
Ultimately, while social media has the power to unite and amplify marginalised voices, it also has the responsibility to protect them. By taking these steps, we can ensure that these platforms become a safer and more welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Although implementing these recommendations may be a lengthy and complex process, lawmakers, tech companies, and users must collaborate to develop solutions that do not introduce new challenges.
We must strive for accountability and transparency as we work towards a safer online environment for everyone and commit to making our online spaces safe for all.