Jessica Yupele

NAME: Jessica Yupele (she/her)
PLATFORM & USERNAME: Twitter @sayhellojess_
CENSORSHIP: Shadow & Content ban

What reason was given for your ban?

Sexual solicitation. Every single time.

Why do you think your post(s) was censored?

One – My skin is black. Two – I am not thin.

Were you able to appeal and what was the response?

Yes. Twice a post was reinstated – in 7 years of removals.

What effect has your experience of censorship had on you?

It has absolutely tanked my outreach. I can’t promote myself, I can’t be found, so I can’t grow, and brands are reluctant to collaborate with me because of my poor analytics. I’ve also had my branded content capabilities removed.

Every time I open the app, I fear my account will be gone. I live in constant anxiety, and sometimes just completely uninstall the app for days or weeks at a time, which also negatively impacts my account. I’ve cried over Instagram. It has made me want to give up my career.

What’s one thing you want people to know about this topic?

If you’re experiencing something similar and it feels like you’re the only one, and you feel paranoid or insane, as well as completely frustrated, you’re not alone. Keep creating, keep sharing your content no matter how many times they try to erase you. We deserve to be seen and to thrive.