Thread by @Timcast

1/ A Thread on racial violence and the media

First, I wish Maajid Nawaz a swift recovery and all the best.

We should absolutely condemn violence and racism in all its forms.

https://twitter.com/MaajidNawaz/status/1097602461639081986

2/ I have tremendous respect for Maajid and have interviewed him in the past.

I want to make a few points as this relates to Jussie Smollett

3/ Smollett's story directly accused Trump supporters which I believe led to scrutiny of the story. It directly conflicted with a political faction and a sub category of that faction directly.

4/ Smollett deserved the benefit of the doubt and many people quickly condemned the racism. Rightly so.

In Jussie's case and Maajid I will err on the side of them as victims even though we know very little about what actually happened outside of their words.

5/ However many people in Smollett's case quickly sought to politicize the attack. Calling out red hats, calling out Trump, condemning his supporters.

This created a political rift over the story and triggered an emotional reaction

6/ I am outraged that someone would attack Maajid, I am angered and saddened and I rightly want justice.

I don't blame any political group for the actions of an individual

7/ I want to make clear that we should always give victims the benefit of the doubt like we did for Jussie and will do for Maajid

8/ Many people quickly called out Jussie as a liar, many others politicized the attack to benefit them. Now many on the left are wishing the attack was true because they dont want to look bad.

9/ Jussie got weeks of the benefit of the doubt and once evidence, reporting, and police sources claimed it was a hoax the calm and rational of us called him out for it.

10/ Ultimately my point is that we shouldn't politicize this in any direction left or right.

It was an asshole with awful intentions and we should seek evidence and seek justice.

Fin/ Everyone wants to weaponize incidents like this for their tribe.

Dont extend to one tribe a privilege you didn't for the other.

Stay consistent and be fair.

Dont let tribalism blind you to the needs of a victim