A user commented on a politically charged post, stating, “A true activist is either in prison, exile or in the grave.”
This comment is toxic because it frames activism as inherently dangerous, implying that suffering or persecution is the only measure of credibility. While activism can involve risk, glorifying imprisonment, exile, or death trivializes the real struggles of people advocating for justice. It also pressures individuals into extreme choices to “prove” their commitment, potentially encouraging reckless behavior.
Online discourse should celebrate meaningful advocacy without romanticizing harm. Encouraging responsible, informed, and safe activism is far more productive than equating suffering with authenticity. Comments like this can inadvertently normalize risk as a badge of honor, rather than promoting constructive change.
— The Red Flags
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