Social media sensation Ms. Rachel reiterates that she is dedicated to including the LGBTQ+ community on her platform regardless of intense backlash from Conservative followers.
Ms. Rachel’s Vocal Support
Known as Ms. Rachel online, Rachel Griffin Accurso made headlines this week after sharing support for the LGBTQ+ community to kick off Pride Month.
Celebrating Pride Month
Accurso posted a 25-second video in support of the queer community saying, “Happy Pride to all of our wonderful families and friends”.
Her Message of Acceptance
Ms. Rachel continued, “This month and every month I celebrate you. I’m so glad you’re here. I’m so glad you’re exactly who you are”.
Wide-Reaching Influence
With over 10 million subscribers on YouTube and more than 2.1 followers on Instagram, Ms. Rachel’s reach extends far and wide across the world.
Mixed Reactions Online
Receiving more than 500,000 likes across social platforms within the first few days, her opinion was unfortunately not welcomed by the more conservative following.
Increase in Hate Towards Queer Community
Over the last few years, there has been a massive increase in hateful rhetoric against the LGBTQ+ community online, specifically towards the transgender people.
Political Context
Before the upcoming election, Right-wing groups have been fueling the fire, saying unspeakable accusations about the queer community.
Conservative Parents Call for Ban
These groups felt that Ms. Rachel’s video was a direct attack against their values, encouraging other parents to ban her content in their own homes.
“Respond Accordingly”
Matt Walsh, the host of Daily Wire said, “This is a message to conservative parents. She doesn’t want your business. You should respond accordingly”.
Conservative Backlash
Other conservative media personalities such as Abby Shapiro and Morgonn McMichael were quick to jump on criticism, adding their own two cents across their own social media platforms.
Unwavering Support
Ms. Rachel is not scared by the loss of followers from the conservative community.
Standing Strong in Love
In response to the criticism, Accurso reminded viewers that she is not here to “chase fame or views” but instead is “standing strong in love”.
Her Christian Perspective
A Christian herself, Accurso also reminded her viewers that her choice to “love every neighbor” is a spiritual principle she takes very seriously.
Embracing Diversity
In an email to her community, Ms. Rachel wrote, “We have met so many wonderful families who watch the show, all with different beliefs, religions and political views”.
Fostering Respect
Accurso continued, “We treat everyone with empathy and respect. I think it’s important to find common ground, and we all want what’s best for our little ones. I believe there should be less division and more dialogue”.
Previous Internet Backlash
Ms. Rachel is no stranger to criticism on the internet. In 2023, the social media star had to take a break from her videos after severe conservative backlash.
Defending her Co-Star
In response to the hate towards her nonbinary co-star, the hate got so bad that Ms. Rachel posted, “Hurtful videos and comments, no matter how much attention they get, will not bring you what you want. Only love can do that”.
Further Advocacy
Even more recently, Accurso received further criticism after publicly endorsing a fundraiser for children in war zones, including the Gaza Strip.
Commitment to Compassion
Ms. Rachel continues to stand her ground, saying “That is who I am. I love my neighbor. I love every child.”
The post “Love Thy Neighbor” – Social Media Educator’s Comeback to Conservative Backlash to Pride Post first appeared on Pulse of Pride.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Kamila Koziol.
