Idris Elba has deep thoughts on people having anonymous identities on social media and feels everybody’s identity should be known.
Taking to his Instagram, the British actor gave a mindful of thoughts, to a huge extent showing his disdain on why public figures have to prove identity especially when seeking social media verification, but the same does not apply to regular users.
‘’People in the public eye get verified on social media (symbolized by a blue tick), the process of verification requires them to prove their identity, so everyone knows who is speaking. SOCIAL MEDIA COMPANIES SHOULD MAKE THIS MANDATORY FOR ALL USERS. Currently, social media is like boarding a plane and not having to show I.D. That would never happen. If cowards are being supported by a veil of privacy and secrecy, then social media is not a safe space. It is an aeroplane that allows travellers to wear balaclavas. If cowards want to spout racial rhetoric then say it with your name, not your username, ‘’ read the post, accompanied by a caption imploring those who hold the same sentiments to repost it, and those with divergent views to ‘say less.’
The post could be his not-so-subtle response to the racist abuse of footballers Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Bukayo Saka after they failed to score during the penalty shootouts during the Euro 2020 final against Italy.
The booing on pitch and online hurling of racial slurs against the players elicited worldwide backlash, with many coming to the defence of the players. ‘’I’m sickened by the racist abuse aimed at England after last night’s match. It is totally unacceptable that players have to endure such abhorrent behaviour. It must stop now and all those involved should be held accountable, ‘’ tweeted the official Duke and Duchess of Cambridge official account amid the chaos.
Elba’s message is his first official response to the situation.
