In the midst of the constant onslaught of information and news, we sometimes find striking silence from those who usually speak out loud. The conflict in Gaza has long been in the world's spotlight, but there are still public figures, especially artists, who choose to remain silent.
From this silence, a new movement emerged on social media known as "Block Out", an invitation for netizens to 'block' or ignore artists who do not use their influence to speak about important issues such as the conflict in Gaza. How does this movement affect the popularity of celebrities and what are its impacts? Let's discuss it further.
What is the 2024 Block Out Movement
The Block Out movement is an online call that invites social media users to block celebrity accounts who remain silent about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Netizens are frustrated that some artists are not using their influence to draw attention to the dire situation in the region.

This movement emerged as a response to increasing polarization and conflict occurring on social media. Many netizens feel bored and disturbed by the provocative or unfounded content that is often spread by several artists and public figures. As a form of protest, they chose to 'block' these accounts so they would no longer receive updates from them.
Block Out has become a symbol of netizens' solidarity with those affected by the conflict. This movement is also a reminder that behind the glamor and entertainment, there is a social responsibility that must be carried out. By ignoring artists who do not speak, netizens hope to send a message that concern for humanitarian issues must take priority.
Affected Artists

Several artists were impacted by this movement. Here are some of them:
- Billie Eilish : This singer and songwriter lost 1.1 million followers on Instagram because she was considered silent about Gaza.
- Selena Gomez : The actress and singer also lost a lot of followers on the social media platform.
- Zendaya : Another artist who is on the list of blocked accounts for not voicing the Palestinian issue.
- Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner : Both lost hundreds of thousands to millions of followers both on Instagram and other platforms.
- Beyonce and Rihanna : These singers were also affected by this movement.
Videos that Spark Movement
The movement was sparked by a TikTok video from influencer Haley Kalil at the Met Gala on May 7. In the video, Haley lip-syncs the phrase “Let them eat cake.” This expression is similar to the French Revolution when Queen Marie Antoinette's indifference to the suffering of the poor became symbolic. Kalil's video received backlash on social media, and netizens stated that it was time to take a “digital guillotine” on celebrities who do not use their resources to help the needy.
The Impact of the 2024 Block Out Movement
The impact of the Block Out 2024 Movement on celebrities is significant. Here are some of the effects that occur:
Losing Followers

Many celebrities experienced a decline in the number of followers on social media after this movement began. Several artists, such as Billie Eilish, Selena Gomez, Zendaya, Kim Kardashian, and Kylie Jenner, lost hundreds of thousands to millions of followers on Instagram and other platforms.
Impact on Reputation

This movement shows how important social responsibility is for celebrities. When they remain silent on important issues such as the conflict in Gaza, their reputation can be tarnished. Netizens judge celebrities based on their attitudes and actions, and indifference can have a negative impact on their public image.
Increased Awareness

The Block Out 2024 movement succeeded in raising awareness about the Israeli and Palestinian conflict. By blocking the accounts of artists who do not speak about the situation in Gaza, netizens are trying to change the narrative and fight for justice. This movement also invites society to be more critical of the use of influence by celebrities.
Influence on the Entertainment Industry

Some celebrities may feel pressure from fans and peers to speak out on global issues. This movement shows that when celebrities use their platforms to speak out on important issues, they can influence positive change in society.
The Block Out 2024 movement shows how social media users can collaborate to voice important issues. Although several artists were affected, this movement also strengthened awareness of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Hopefully this movement will encourage more people to speak out and act for peace and justice around the world. Let us work together to fight for human rights and end the silence towards the suffering of others.
