Racism on Social Media: A Call to Action for Change

Strategic Insights -

When centre-back Jess Carter stepped onto the pitch at Euro 2025, she was carrying a generation's hopes. However, her joy was short-lived, as she was met with racist abuse on social media. This is just one of many instances where footballers have been subjected to online harassment, a problem that has been perpetuated by social media platforms. The issue is not just limited to football; it is a global phenomenon that affects athletes and individuals from all walks of life.

Key Takeaways:

  • Social media platforms are enabling racism and abuse by prioritizing outraged reactions and serving people more ads, ultimately harming mental health.
  • The business model of these platforms is designed to maximize engagement, which can lead to the spread of hate and abuse.
  • WeAre8, a social network founded in 2022, is a platform that prioritizes positive mental health, community, and accountability, with a powerful AI shield that detects and blocks abuse before it reaches users' feeds.
  • The platform has made intentional design choices that protect its community, including no anonymous posting, no hate-amplifying algorithms, and no tolerance for discrimination.
  • Jess Carter's story highlights the need for change and the responsibility of social media companies to create a safer and more respectful internet.
  • The FA's efforts to support its players and lead change in football are commendable, but the power to change lies with the collective voice of social media users who can vote with their feet and choose alternative platforms.
  • Football is about unity, passion, and pride, but it cannot claim these values if it does not recognize the impact of its actions and the need to challenge racism and abuse on social media.

Statistics:

  • 2022: The year WeAre8 was founded as a social network designed to fuel positive mental health at scale.
  • 100%: The rate at which abuse is reported and blocked on WeAre8, thanks to its powerful AI shield.

Sources:

  • [1] Zoe Kalar, founder and CEO of WeAre8
  • [2] PA Wire, official photo agency of the UK
  • [3] Meta, a social media company, no date provided in source material