TikTok Status: Banned?
With a potential sale or ban looming, what are the implications of this decision on the fandoms that congregate on the platform?
In a move that could dramatically alter the social media landscape, the U.S. House of Representatives has put forward legislation that presents a dire threat to TikTok's operations in the country. Following an overwhelming decision by House lawmakers and with a Senate vote on the horizon, TikTok’s fate in the United States is increasingly uncertain, posing significant concerns for its vast user base and the flourishing fandom communities it hosts.
Legislative Developments and Their Implications
Recent reports from CNN and The Washington Post highlight that the new legislation grants TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, an extended timeline—roughly nine months, with a possible 90-day extension by President Joe Biden—to divest the app's U.S. assets or face a ban. The legislative strategy of incorporating the TikTok bill into a larger foreign aid package complicates opposition, as it ties the fate of TikTok to critical support for Ukraine and Israel.
Beyond the options of having to sell or be banned, we have to also look at the third option, where TikTok fights back. Internal memos suggest that TikTok is preparing to fight back and if anything, this could significantly delay the timeline mentioned above.
The Potential Impact on TikTok's User Base and Fandom Culture
The looming Senate vote and possible presidential endorsement threaten to initiate a countdown for TikTok, endangering the platform that has become a haven for diverse fandom activities. TikTok’s unique ability to foster communities through its recommendation algorithm has enabled fans to share content that ranges from pop culture analyses to fan-created narratives and beyond.
If the vote moves forward and a ban is avoided by ByteDance selling it, that doesn’t guarantee that its new owners wouldn’t make changes that could continue to impact user experience. Looking at what you did to Twitter, Elon.
A Crossroads for TikTok and Fandom Dynamics
Even if TikTok manages to navigate the legal hurdles or facilitate a sale, the essence of how users engage with its content could witness a significant transformation, particularly if the deal excludes TikTok's sophisticated algorithm. Such a scenario could disband closely-knit fandom communities, challenge content discoverability, and alter the vibrant ecosystem that TikTok users have cultivated. This shift will not only impact users but the momentum that many have seen around music, women’s sports, and more.
Love it or hate it, TikTok has had a powerful impact on how we connect, and discuss what we love and care about.
The challenges faced by TikTok could mark a critical inflection point for digital fandom culture, illustrating the ephemeral nature of online communities that rely on platforms caught amidst geopolitical tensions and corporate maneuverings. Cue the “don’t build on other people’s land” posts.
Looking Ahead
As TikTok grapples with these formidable challenges, the adaptability of fandom communities will be pivotal. The potential disruption or alteration of TikTok’s operational model could herald a crucial moment for the continuation of fan cultures online. The discourse surrounding TikTok's future not only highlights the ongoing debate over digital rights and content censorship but also the significance of platforms in fostering identities and community connections in the digital era.
As the news unfolds, the resilience and creativity of fan communities will remain crucial in ensuring the endurance of their cultural practices and expressions online. The circumstances surrounding TikTok's standing in the U.S. underscore the broader implications for digital freedom, innovation, and the sustenance of vibrant online communities connected through shared passions and interests.
Will we see an even stronger resurgence for Tumblr? Will Vine be brought back from the dead? Only time will tell.
Learning Spotlight:
Hold the FYP! Washington Post’s TikTok Guy Dave Jorgenson is coming to State of Social ‘24!!
TFW one of the world’s top TikTok alchemists comes to SOS24!
Stop press! Hit record! Whether you’re a TikTok virgin or a veteran, this is BIG news. The alchemist behind The Washington Post’s TikTok success and the must-read book Make a TikTok Every Day: 365 Prompts for Attention-Grabbing TikToks is coming to State of Social ’24.
Dave Jorgenson, senior video reporter leading the Washington Post TikTok Team.
Forbes Media 30 Under 30. Best Influencer, The Webby Awards. Best Digital Project to Engage Young and/or Millennial Audiences, North American Digital Media Awards. As Dave’s growing list of accolades suggests, he’s more than your average reporter and author.
And we’re stoked he’s coming to SOS24 – his first (& only!) Australian speaking gig – to answer all your TikTok questions (as well as the ones that haven’t occurred to you yet).
Dave’s keynote will close out Day Two, the perfect crescendo for our growing program of keynotes, breakouts and workshops. Watch this space for more info and inspo. And if you haven’t already, grab your discounted All Access ticket.
What are you waiting for?! Grab your State of Social ’24 ticket now.
Talent Opportunities:
Since I started sharing job opportunities and talent here, a lot of other newsletters have started to help others. Here are some of my favorite go-to spots for people looking: