Campaign season is a time when everyone pulls out all the stops from collaborating with brands to securing cameos from major influencers. However, one of the biggest downsides is the spread of rumors on social media platforms, particularly Sidechat. Following a recent tragedy at a fellow Historically Black College, where a student at North Carolina Central University died by suicide due to cyberbullying, the conversation around online behavior has become more urgent than ever.
During campaign season, empathy often takes a backseat. Students running for high positions, such as Student Government Association President or Royal Court, frequently become targets of false narratives, harsh opinions, and unnecessary criticism all in an effort to elevate others perceived as “more worthy.”
It is important to remember that, beyond the titles and campaigns, these individuals are students striving to succeed academically and enjoy the college experience that Historically Black Colleges and Universities provide. Negative comments made on social media can significantly impact candidates’ mental health. In this most recent election, many harmful remarks targeted candidates and student representatives, often bringing up personal matters unrelated to their campaigns.
Student leaders such as the 95th Miss Southern, Gala Marcus, and the 81st Student Government Association President, Sean Inman, were among those criticized, with claims suggesting they had done little for the student body. These narratives, however, do not accurately reflect their contributions. While it is fair to hold leaders accountable to high standards, both individuals have demonstrated strong commitment and responsibility in their roles within the Southern University Student Government Association.
When asked about the impact of anonymous platforms like Sidechat, President Inman acknowledged that this election season was marked by division, hostility, and harmful online behavior, including slander and cyberbullying affecting both candidates and the broader student body. He emphasized that such negativity creates an unhealthy environment that does not reflect the university’s values and has lasting effects on student well-being.
Inman also addressed concerns within the election process itself, noting that these issues have contributed to a growing divide across campus. He shared that a comprehensive review of the election process will be conducted to restore integrity, transparency, and trust. Moving forward, he encouraged students and leaders alike to recommit to respect, accountability, and unity, stressing that rebuilding a positive campus standard requires collective effort.
Many students share similar concerns. Graduating Criminal Justice major Trinity Riley stated, “I feel like it disrupted the mental state of the candidates because a lot of things posted on Sidechat were either rumors or opinions, and everything on that app has to be taken with a grain of salt.”
On the other hand, some students remain unaffected. Quentin Nelson, a junior Mass Communication major with a concentration in Broadcast Journalism, offered a different perspective: “Sidechat didn’t really impact my campaign experience because I’m rarely on the app, so I don’t let it influence my decisions.”
Congratulations to all those elected to their respective positions. With leadership, however, comes increased visibility and criticism. While negative comments may come from all directions, staying focused on the purpose of serving and creating change within the university can help diminish their impact.
At the administrative level, action is necessary. Whether through stricter accountability measures or reevaluating the presence of anonymous platforms like Sidechat, steps must be taken to prevent further harm. This is not the first instance where students’ personal lives and mental health have been affected, and without change, it likely will not be the last.
