Surely, you all know of the Las Vegas tragedy that took place late Sunday night. This mass shooting killed 59 people and injured over 500 more. Social media covered it all, some showed sympathy, but others showed disdain. Also, some others used it to push propaganda. Social media responds to Las Vegas massacre.
A CBS executive lost her job. On Facebook, she called the country music concert attendees, “…Republican gun toters.” Her bosses found the post and fired her. Then you have bloggers from the far-right, accusing the shooter of being a left-wing extremist. However, those on the left didn’t hesitate to push their anti-gun campaign using this tragedy. Some even gave out wrong information all together, calling the shooter ‘Gary Danley’. The shooter’s real name is Steven Paddock.
But there are good ways social media responds to Las Vegas massacre. Many in Las Vegas used Facebook’s feature to let loved ones know they’re okay. Many in Washington and Hollywood took to Twitter. They didn’t push an agenda, but sent out real condolences, prayers and sympathies to the victims. In fact, tributes are coming from all walks of life. Silicon Valley leaders also tweeted their sympathies. Facebook also offers a help page for Las Vegas, offering blood donations, food, shelter, and counseling for those directly affected.
Yes, there is talk about this tragedy in our computer service shop. There’s also talk among other IT support companies on what to do. But as you can see, there is good and bad social media is providing out of this. But if I were social media, especially Facebook, I wouldn’t make this too political. Because Facebook is already in trouble in the wake of the Russian ad scandal. And be careful of what you post online. Because it could cost you everything. Just ask that CBS executive. However, we all need to keep the positive vibes going on social media. A lot of people need it.
We at Computer Geeks send our thoughts, prayers, condolences, and good vibes to the victims and their families of this Las Vegas tragedy. Let us take this time to unify in our grief, not to use this as an excuse to divide.