The Met Gala incident and the rise of a digital protest

In the wake of the Met Gala on May 6, 2024, a significant social media campaign known as “Blockout 2024” has gained momentum. This movement involves users blocking celebrities on platforms like Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok. The catalyst for this campaign was perceived inaction or unsympathetic responses by public figures regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which has escalated tensions and called into question the role of celebrities in geopolitical issues.

Origins and Goals of Blockout 2024

The “Blockout 2024” movement, alternatively dubbed the “celebrity block list” or “digitize,” symbolizes a modern-day digital guillotine. It reflects the growing frustration among social media users with celebrities who remain silent or outwardly support situations perceived as unjust, such as the current conflict in Gaza. By blocking these celebrities, participants aim to decrease their social media influence and, consequently, their potential earnings from advertisements.

The French Revolution Parallels

The term “digitine,” evoking the guillotine of the French Revolution, highlights the drastic actions taken by the public against perceived indifference among the elite. Just as the guillotine was a symbol of ultimate accountability during the Revolution, the “Blockout 2024” campaign aims to hold public figures accountable for their social and political stances or lack thereof.

Impact on Celebrities

From an economic perspective, when celebrities are blocked en masse, it potentially reduces their followers and, by extension, their influence and attractiveness to advertisers. This decline can directly impact their earnings from social media platforms, where follower engagement translates into ad revenue.

Public and Celebrity Reactions

The campaign has seen mixed reactions. Some celebrities have responded by either clarifying their positions or expressing support for the affected communities in Gaza, while others have remained silent. The public’s response has been largely supportive of the movement, viewing it as a powerful tool for digital activism and a means to express discontent with celebrity culture’s disconnect from global humanitarian issues.

Conclusion: The Broader Implications

“Blockout 2024” raises significant questions about the responsibilities of public figures in leveraging their platforms for advocacy or political commentary. It also highlights the power of collective digital action in influencing public discourse and holding individuals accountable in the age of social media