Lailah Elliot celebrated her 26th birthday by sharing on X that she had been officially sworn in as an attorney. The post unexpectedly went viral, drawing over 20.1 million views and a mix of applause and scrutiny. While some users congratulated Elliot, others criticized minor details such as how she held a pen and debated her choice of outfit. One user accused her of lying about where she bought her dress, sparking further criticism. The incident ignited discussions across social media about the scrutiny that women, especially women of color, face online.
The intense reaction to Elliot’s post reflects a broader trend on X, where public scrutiny has become increasingly aggressive since Elon Musk’s takeover of the platform. Research by ISD and CASM Technology for BBC Panorama in 2023 revealed a sharp rise in newly created accounts following known misogynistic channels on the platform, correlating with Musk’s ownership milestones and the reinstatement of controversial figures. Analysts found that accounts linked to these channels jumped by nearly 70 percent post-takeover, leading to a perception of more leniency toward abusive behavior.
Since Musk’s takeover, X has shifted toward softer sanctions for people breaking traditional policy areas for users, focusing on reach restrictions rather than account suspensions for many violations. Despite the backlash, Elliot remains undeterred, stating that while she was shocked her post went viral, the support she received far outweighed the negativity. Many young people reached out to her, saying they felt inspired to pursue law or higher education because of her post. Elliot plans to filter her comments more carefully in the future but will continue sharing her accomplishments.
The scrutiny faced by Elliot and other women online highlights the challenges they face in a social media landscape that can be harsh and unforgiving. Despite facing criticism over minor details in her celebratory post, Elliot remains focused on inspiring others and pursuing her goals. The incident also sheds light on the broader trend of aggressive public scrutiny on X following Musk’s takeover, with a rise in accounts linked to misogynistic channels and a perceived leniency toward abusive behavior. Elliot’s experience serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting and uplifting women, especially women of color, in male-dominated fields like law.
In today’s social media landscape, where public figures and ordinary individuals alike face intense scrutiny, it is crucial to remember the impact that online comments and criticism can have on mental health and well-being. Elliot’s story is a reminder of the importance of resilience and determination in the face of adversity. Despite the challenges she has faced, Elliot remains committed to celebrating her accomplishments and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. As she filters her comments more carefully in the future, Elliot is focused on using her platform to spread positivity and support among her followers.
