Cyberbullying is Real — And It Took a Life

People truly don’t understand that cyberbullying is real. No matter the social media platform, some people feel entitled to say anything without considering the impact. Some of you may know, and some may not, but a young woman named Riziki took her life on TikTok Live after being relentlessly bullied by her peers. People were telling her to do it- and even how to do it - which is heartbreaking.

I don’t know her personally, but I had seen her on different panels. Still, it deeply troubles my soul that she felt so alone and was pushed to that point, live, while others encouraged it. What makes it even worse is that after her passing, people continued to mock her, speak negatively about her, and say they don’t care— claiming they won’t face consequences because she “spoke back.” If she did, it was only because she was attacked first.

I am sorry, Riziki, that you lived a troubled life. I’m sorry you tried to be friends with people who didn’t deserve your love or loyalty. I wish you were still here so I could hug you and tell you that I have your back— that you were not alone. Sometimes people open up to strangers, sometimes they don’t, but I wish you had known that it would be okay.

I hope you are resting now, and I truly hope justice will be served for you. Your life mattered!