Viral Disinformation and Real-World Consequences
In a widely circulated TikTok video, Gabriel, who is known for his advocacy work with the homeless and LGBTQ+ community, pushed back against what he refers to as dangerous falsehoods.
“My name is not Matthew. I have no idea why they’re posting this,” he said. “I work with the homeless. I have nothing to do with this story, which isn’t real. Please find something better to do with your time.”
He followed up with another video explaining that although the hoax may seem laughable to some, it carries deeply serious implications. According to Gabriel, misinformation like this not only damages reputations but can also spark real-world violence in a politically polarized environment.
“That’s all it takes to start to get somebody that’s a little bit radicalized, somebody that’s willing to pick up their guns and go do something,” he warned. “And it wouldn’t be the first time somebody’s tried.”
Gabriel concluded his message with a stark warning: “You can’t slander people,” and stated that he is now considering legal action against individuals or entities responsible for propagating the false narrative.
