Disparity in Mourning on Social Media

Since the recent terrorist attacks in Paris, a dialogue has sprung up on social media about why the world rises in support of some targeted populations, while ignoring victims in other places.

On social media such as on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, many have been talking about the attack in France killing 127 people. People have expressed concern and support for those suffering in Paris by adding the French flag to their profile pictures and circulating messages of solidarity.

Others are troubled by the fact that users of these social networks are only talking about Paris and paying very little or no attention to what is happening in Kenya where 147 people were killed earlier this year, or other places where terrorism has affected hundreds of lives. And some social media users said things like, “We don’t see a Kenyan flag on your profile picture and we have real issues in Kenya, too.” Many people are upset, wondering why the Paris attack was on the news more than the attacks in Kenya.

Some people online responded by pledging to pray for Kenya as well as Paris: “Thursday, 147 dead in terrorist attack on Kenya college. Friday, 120 dead in terrorist attacks around Paris. Some people are praying for both countries some are taking one side of these horrible acts of terrorism.”

I personally think every life matters, and I feel the same heartbreak for Kenya and Paris. Both attacks were terrible, and the families of the dead in both countries will feel the same sorrow. Everyone is human, everyone is equal, and people arguing about which one should be more shown and discussed on social media are not helping the families of the dead and injured, nor will it prevent further deaths.

Feel free to comment below on what your thoughts on this topic are.