Gamergate’s Legacy Lives on in Attacks Against Kamala Harris
Since the infamous Gamergate controversy in 2014, the toxic culture of online harassment and abuse has continued to plague the internet. One of the most recent targets of this harassment is Vice President Kamala Harris.
Despite becoming the first female Vice President of the United States and breaking barriers for women of color in politics, Harris has faced a barrage of sexist and racist attacks online. Many of these attacks echo the language and tactics used during Gamergate, with critics questioning Harris’s qualifications and spreading unfounded conspiracy theories about her.
The legacy of Gamergate, which was ostensibly about ethics in video game journalism but quickly devolved into a campaign of harassment against women in the gaming industry, continues to fuel the online vitriol directed at women in positions of power.
From death threats to misogynistic insults, the attacks against Harris are a stark reminder of the misogyny and racism that still pervade online spaces. This toxic culture not only harms individuals like Harris, but also stifles diversity and inclusion in the tech industry and beyond.
As we grapple with the lingering effects of Gamergate and other online hate movements, it is crucial to call out and confront this behavior wherever it appears. By standing up to misogyny, racism, and all forms of online harassment, we can work towards creating a safer and more inclusive internet for everyone.
It is essential for us to recognize the connection between Gamergate and the attacks against Kamala Harris, and to take action to combat the toxic culture that enables and perpetuates this abuse. Together, we can work towards a more equitable and respectful online community.
Let us not forget the lessons of Gamergate and strive to build a better future where all individuals, regardless of gender or race, can participate in online conversations without fear of harassment or abuse.
