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What You Need to Know About the TikTok Ban and How It Affects Your Social Media Experience

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Career & Money

What You Need to Know About the TikTok Ban and How It Affects Your Social Media Experience

When Barbara “Babs” Costello, a spirited 73-year-old grandmother, started sharing her beloved recipes on TikTok back in 2020, she had no idea she was about to embark on a journey that would connect her with millions of people around the world. “I was amazed at the support I got from that one little video. It was a very uncertain time, and I, an older lady, was bringing some solace and peace to people who were watching,” Costello shared in a heartfelt conversation with Business Insider. Little did she know that her friendly presence in the kitchen would help create a community—her TikTok account, @brunchwithbabs, now boasts over 4 million followers. This was not just a viral sensation; it was an unexpected lifeline for many, proving that even in challenging times, connection and comfort can be found in the most delightful places.

Barbara’s journey exemplifies one of the many reasons TikTok has become a favorite among social media users. Unlike other platforms, TikTok uses a unique algorithm that prioritizes personal interests and engagement level over the usual popularity metrics, allowing voices from varied backgrounds to emerge. “TikTok showed me different worlds and perspectives,” reflects Jennifer Chen, a mother from the suburbs of Chicago. She shares how the app has opened her eyes to new experiences—from learning about sustainable farming from Indigenous creators in New Zealand to picking up practical financial advice from a former Wall Street executive and even mastering meal prep from a Lebanese mom. This sense of discovery is not just enlightening; it brings a rich diversity of knowledge directly to users, creating a global community.

Beyond its reputation for quirky dances and entertaining clips, TikTok has transformed into a powerful educational resource and a lifeline for small businesses. The platform’s short-form videos make learning accessible, turning difficult concepts into digestible, appealing bites. Whether it’s a quick coding tutorial or mental health insights, TikTok has become an invaluable tool for millions. For small business owners—especially women trying to get their brands off the ground—TikTok offers a space that allows them to connect with potential customers without needing vast marketing budgets. Countless creators have turned their passions into successful small enterprises, showing that determination, creativity, and the right platform can really make a difference.

Moreover, TikTok has proven instrumental during challenging times, helping parents feel less isolated and amplifying voices advocating for social justice. The app has become a platform for raising awareness on significant global issues—like the conflict in Palestine and Israel—facilitating dialogues that may previously have felt limited by mainstream media. “The TikTok ban highlights the importance of digital responsibility,” notes Dr. Colleen Napleton, a clinical psychologist and parent educator from suburban Chicago. “It has been remarkable to witness the evolution of the parenting movement, largely due to the influence of parenting creators. Parents now have access to better information and feel less alone as they turn to the TikTok community for support and advice.”

As discussions swirl around a potential ban of TikTok—primarily due to national security concerns—it’s essential to recognize how much more is at stake than just the app itself. The Supreme Court has upheld a federal law that would ban TikTok unless it is divested from its Chinese parent company, leaving users anxious about their favorite platform. Meanwhile, many are exploring alternatives like Red Note, a similar app that just recently climbed to the top of Apple’s App Store. “It feels like a push for more control than actual concern for our security, especially when you’re aware of how much TikTok has enabled marginalized voices and fueled grassroots movements,” comments Elaine Coleman, a Manhattan mom of two tween girls.

Reflecting on the potential impact of a TikTok ban reveals even deeper implications—this isn’t just about losing a fun app for trendy dances and cooking tips; it touches upon the very fabric of how we learn, connect, and foster community in this digital age. The conversation around the ban opens a broader dialogue about digital freedom, the role of government regulation, and the evolving landscape of social media.

There’s one thing we know for sure: our desire for engaging, interest-driven content won’t just disappear if TikTok is taken away. As we stand at this crossroads in our digital culture, let’s remember what could be lost if we don’t advocate for platforms that foster connection and understanding. Let’s cherish the creative spaces that allow us to come together, learn from one another, and, most importantly, not feel alone in our experiences.

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