Why Forcing TikTok to Sell Could Silence a Generation of Creators

TikTok’s parent company ByteDance has been granted a 75-day reprieve as pressure from the U.S. government intensifies for the company to sell the app. The move stems from concerns first raised under the Trump administration and is once again raising alarm bells about censorship, control of online culture, and freedom of expression.

ByteDance is more than just TikTok. The Beijing-based tech giant also owns apps like CapCut, a popular video editing tool, Helo, a social platform tailored for Indian audiences, and Lemon8, a lifestyle app with a growing user base in the U.S. But TikTok is the platform that truly exploded worldwide and embedded itself in daily life, especially among Gen Z and marginalized communities.

So should TikTok be sold to a U.S. company? For many, the answer is no.

While security concerns are always worth discussing, critics argue that the aggressive push to force a sale isn’t only about protecting data. It’s about silencing a platform that thrives on user-generated content and allows voices outside the traditional media landscape to rise. TikTok has given countless creators, especially Black influencers, musicians, and activists; a platform to be seen and heard without gatekeepers.

If TikTok falls into the hands of a U.S. company influenced by political agendas, many fear the app could lose its edge. There’s concern that it could become more sanitized, less diverse, and potentially a tool to promote misinformation or amplify one-sided narratives.

For those considering alternatives just in case TikTok is banned or dramatically changed, here are three promising platforms to check out:

Fanbase
Fanbase is a Black-owned social network created by Isaac Hayes III that lets users monetize their content. Whether it’s photos, videos, or live streams, creators can earn revenue through subscriptions while keeping full ownership of their work. It’s ideal for influencers who want to build community and get paid.

Rednote
Rednote allows users to express themselves with music-powered video and text clips. Think of it as a way to send messages and content backed by songs that elevate the emotion. It’s a creative and fresh take on communication that appeals to music lovers and digital storytellers.

Skylight
Skylight is designed for creators who love visual storytelling. With a sleek layout and a focus on short-form content, the app gives users a space to share artistic videos, micro-blogs, and lifestyle content. Its focus on authenticity and creativity makes it a solid pick for influencers looking to connect in a meaningful way.

At the heart of this ongoing fight over TikTok is a much bigger issue. Who gets to control the platforms that shape our culture? Who decides what speech is acceptable and which voices get amplified?

As we wait to see what ByteDance does next, one thing is clear. This isn’t just about an app. It’s about ownership, freedom, and protecting the digital spaces where culture lives and grows.