Just weeks ago, comedic actress Leslie Jones collided with racist tweeters online who verbally attacked her following her role in the new “Ghostbusters” reboot. While she initially deactivated her account temporarily in response to the bullying, Jones eventually took to the same platform to defend herself against those who spewed racist and negative comments. Now the actress is using that same strength to be a voice for another black, female star.
Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas has been one of the most recent high profile targets of racially charged hate and other negative comments. Comments attacking Douglas’ hair, looks, and skin color have plagued the 20-year-old’s social media accounts. More attacks came Douglas’ way after she did not put her hand over her heart during the National Anthem. Sunday, Douglas addressed the hate following her final completion for the Rio games. “When they talk about my hair or me not putting my hand on my heart or me being very salty in the stands, they’re really criticizing me, and it doesn’t really feel good. It was a little bit hurtful.”
In an effort to uplift the gymnast, Jones took to Twitter to create a hashtag used to show her support. “Yo I just heard Gabby getting attacked on her page show her the love you showed me,” Jones tweeted, “#LOVE4GABBYUSA, send to @gabrielledoug.”
The hashtag took off so successfully it has managed to garnered over 3 million tweets. Celebrities including Shonda Rhimes and Kerry Washington used the hashtag to show their support. It didn’t take long for the outpouring of support to reach the Olympic gold medalist, and soon she was taking to her own account to give thanks. “Thank u so much for all the love! My heart is full! @Lessdoggg♥️,” Douglas tweeted, “I love you guys!”
