A movement called the “digital guillotine” has emerged on social media, urging users to block the accounts of celebrities who have remained silent about the ongoing humanitarian crises in Gaza. Celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Zendaya, Drake, Justin Bieber, and the Kardashian family have been targeted, leading even longtime fans to join in on the blocking. The pressure for celebrities to support civilians in Gaza has been building for months, reaching a tipping point during the Met Gala when Israel announced a military offensive.
The Met Gala, often compared to “The Hunger Games” due to its opulent nature, faced criticism this year as celebrities posed for photos while pro-Palestinian protesters marched outside. The backlash intensified when social media creator Haley Kalil posted a TikTok video while wearing her Met Gala gown, leading to accusations of insensitivity. The phrase “Let Them Eat Cake” was used in the video, further fueling outrage. This incident sparked the “digitine” movement, with users calling for a boycott of celebrities who do not use their platforms to help those in need.
Some celebrities, like rapper Macklemore, have taken steps to educate themselves about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and voice their support for Palestinians. Others, such as Haley Kalil, have faced backlash for their lack of awareness and support. The block lists circulating on social media have led to a loss of followers for many celebrities, indicating a shift in public sentiment. Palestinian journalist Bisan Owda supported the movement, urging people to block celebrities who do not educate themselves about the struggles of the majority.
While there is some debate over the effectiveness of targeting celebrities with block lists, some have acknowledged the impact of influencer endorsements. Despite disagreements within the campaign, some stars have responded by posting videos encouraging donations to aid organizations supporting Palestinians in Gaza. Although some criticized these actions as performative, others viewed them as a positive step towards using their platforms for support. The ongoing protests and activism highlight the power of social media in holding celebrities accountable for their actions or inactions regarding humanitarian issues.
