Last year after the passing of television presenter Caroline Flack. Social Media Kindness Day was created to shed light on the importance of a positive online experience. Allowing social media to be a place where people can connect and share without having to tolerate negativity.
Social media has become a huge part of people’s every day lives, especially for younger people. We are constantly connected, and this can cause stress and hurt if certain behaviours online are not challenged/stood up against.
When unkind or hateful words online aren’t directed at us, it’s easy to ignore. But we need to work together to point out unkindness so that we can make the internet a safe space for everyone.
How to get involved in Social Media Kindness Day
Get involved by pledging here, and show support on your social media by taking a selfie doing the love sign with your hand. Tag three friends and follow the instructions below:
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Being a positivity source online
Even if you don’t get involved on the day, take these actions to be a positive source online for yourself and others:
1. Post about things that make you happy instead of focusing on negatives.
It’s easy to use our online social spaces to vent about our problems, but often it just fuels more negativity when others join in and sometimes it can get way out of hand. Social media accounts like Calm post reassurances and positive messages daily to motivate and help their followers.
2. Call out negative or hateful behaviour.
We all have a responsibility to call out any online behaviour that is hurtful to others. Sometimes it can be easy to look away, but if we all take a stand against abuse and trolling it will make it more difficult for those who spend their time making the internet a negative space.
3. Be respectful of others online.
Even if you don’t agree with them. We all have different views and experiences, and that’s something to celebrate. If you find that something bothers you online try to remain open minded. It would be hurtful to be criticised or attacked for what you believe in, so always try to remain diplomatic, and walk away if you find yourself becoming angry or stressed.
