Barely a few days after reports that YouTube was blocking and filtering videos made by LGBTQ+ community emerged, global video sharing giant admitted that it ‘incorrectly labelled’ videos and apologised for it. The Google owned company has a “restricted mode” feature which “filter out potentially inappropriate content”. However, many users expressed their outrage after they noticed that the site is hiding videos with LGBT content under this category.
“We are so proud to represent LGBTQ+ voices on our platform – they’re a key part of what YouTube is all about,” said YouTube in a statement on Twitter. “The intention of Restricted Mode is to filter out mature content for the tiny subset of users who want a more limited experience.
“LGBTQ+ videos are available in Restricted Mode, but videos that discuss more sensitive issues may not be. We regret any confusion this has caused and are looking into your concerns.” the statement read. Creators and viewers registered their protest over the weekend, with ##YouTubeIsOverParty trending globally.
Sorry for all the confusion with Restricted Mode. Some videos have been incorrectly labeled and that’s not right. We’re on it! More to come.
— YouTube Creators (@YTCreators) March 20, 2017
However, users did not take the apology lightly and strongly responded to the video site.
.@YTCreators you’re blocking everything with any hint of lgbtq+! Vids of me swearing aren’t restricted but transwomen makeup tutorials are
— dodie (@doddleoddle) March 20, 2017
quick translation: we want your LGTBQ+ videos to get £££ off you but will have to restrict them for the homophobic minority on the platform https://t.co/AqU6Saiugg
— veronica (@veronicatls) March 20, 2017
Rowan Ellis, an LGBT creator, triggered the row after she shared a video saying the move by YouTube implied a “bias” because it “equates LGBT with ‘not family friendly’.” “You blocked my coming out video that addresses labels we face daily, a video MADE for LGBTQ youth — nothing is sensitive,” vlogger Jordan Doww said in tweet.
