The power of social media: a call for responsibility

Recently, the front page of the New York Post captured an upsetting image: a young woman in the City of Long Beach, twerking on the hood of a Nassau County police vehicle amid civil unrest. I believe this image raises important questions for public discourse, especially in the age of social media, when the amplification of such events can quickly shape public perception and policy.

The context of this image is critical. Thousands of out-of-town students had descended on Long Beach, prompting the police to close the beach because of the large crowds and the ensuing chaos. Multiple fights broke out, and the scene became disorderly. Amid this turmoil, the young woman’s act on the police car symbolized more than just a moment of defiance; it became a flashpoint for discussions about respect for law enforcement and the dynamics between the public and the police.

As a newly elected official, I find myself grappling with the implications of this event. Here is the crux of the issue: If the police attempt to arrest this young woman for what many will view as a minor infraction, the repercussions can be drastic. But if they take no action, what message does that send to the public? Does it suggest that it is acceptable to openly disrespect the police and face no consequences? Conversely, does attempting an arrest in such a charged environment risk escalating the situation into something far more dangerous?

Social media’s role in this scenario cannot be understated. Platforms like X, Instagram and Facebook are where public opinion is rapidly shaped and then magnified. Had the police arrested the woman, it is easy to envision the scene being recorded and disseminated widely, likely accompanied by commentary accusing the police of overreach. This undoubtedly would have ignited a firestorm of criticism, further fueled by social justice advocates who see police actions through a lens of historical mistrust and current events.

Conversely, by taking no action, the police may have inadvertently signaled that such behavior is permissible. This can create a slippery slope where boundaries of acceptable behavior are continuously tested and pushed, potentially leading to more severe infractions. The delicate balance between maintaining order and respecting individual rights is a tightrope that law enforcement must walk daily, and social media only adds a layer of complexity to every decision officers make.

Social media amplifies voices, often those driven by emotion rather than a full understanding of the situation. A single image or short video clip, stripped of context, can ignite outrage or sympathy, influencing public sentiment and, ultimately, policy decisions. The rapid spread of information and the intense scrutiny of law enforcement actions create a climate in which every decision is second-guessed, often with incomplete information.

So, I ask, what should be done in such situations? Unfortunately, whatever decision is made at the time will fuel heated debate. It is essential to encourage responsible social media engagement, where users take the time to understand the context before reacting. The post is going to go up, but it is the responsibility of the viewer to watch with the understanding that misrepresentations are easy, and often created by design.

Furthermore, the intention should be the opposite. It should be a concerted effort to build trust between the community and law enforcement.

The power and influence of social media are undeniable. It can be a force for good, raising awareness of injustices and mobilizing positive change. But it can also distort perceptions and inflame tensions. As we navigate this digital age, it is incumbent on all of us — public officials, law enforcement, and citizens alike — to engage responsibly and thoughtfully, ensuring that our actions and reactions contribute to a more informed, respectful and cohesive society.

Patrick Mullaney represents Nassau County’s 4th Legislative District.