This is the opinion of the writer and does not necessarily reflect the views of La Voz News.
TikTok’s ban is seen as a crisis in America, but its impermanence has become more ubiquitous in several countries over the past few weeks — specifically in China. A surprising twist is the sparking camaraderie between both countries, turning this ban into a blessing in disguise.
To fill the void of no longer having TikTok in the United States after Jan. 19, American users have spread the word of a substituting app all over social media to inform others of a “new” platform to indulge in.
RedNote — also known by its Chinese name, Xiaohongshu — is a popular social media platform in China with a similar concept to TikTok, making it the perfect substitute app since Americans can easily acclimate. Various entertainment categories are available for users to enjoy watching and creating. Genres include Beauty, Food, Crafts, Humor, Games, Music, and Art.
Understandably, some users were wary when first downloading RedNote to not overstep their boundaries with the Chinese by invading their space. Shockingly, most of the users welcomed the “TikTok refugees,” as RedNote users like to call Americans, with open arms.
TikTok may be at its end, but rapport between American and Chinese communities has begun.
“A looming TikTok ban has connected Chinese and American citizens like never before, as they swap jokes and memes in what one user described as a ‘historic moment,’” according to BBC.
Many Chinese RedNote users have posted welcoming videos directed toward Americans and kindly given guidelines on how the app works, how to communicate with others and left their comment sections open for any questions. The warmth shown during this app transition is slowly diminishing the walls dividing the countries and should be seen as the light at the end of a dark tunnel.
Expressing their gratitude for the Chinese’ friendliness, Americans remind fellow citizens to be mindful of their actions on RedNote as foreigners on the app. “Be on your best behavior” and “we are guests in their home” are common phrases used in comment sections on both RedNote and TikTok.
To go above and beyond, many new users are learning Mandarin to better communicate with locals and show their respect. American users posted videos of them thanking the Chinese community for their compassion and hospitality on RedNote in close-to-fluent Mandarin.
There has been an immense increase in Americans learning Mandarin on Duolingo with these videos. According to an article from Fox 7 News, “A representative for Duolingo told TechCrunch, HuffPost, and Business Insider that Mandarin courses have seen a 216% increase in new users compared to this time last year, with the growth accelerating since mid-January.”
The countries’ newfound friendship is believed to go down in history, especially because it is what the American government has failed to prevent— despite their persistent efforts.
In retaliation for the US government banning TikTok, Americans like to call the Chinese their “Chinese spies.” The joke refers to the government claiming that a large reason for the ban is stopping the Chinese from stealing Americans’ data and using it to their advantage.
It has become a mutual joke between the countries for each American to have their very own “Chinese spy.” Users are making unserious jokes with serious movie scenes and funny pictures, such as solemn videos with a caption of “Me saying goodbye to my Chinese spy on the 19th.”
The shocking, hilarious and heartwarming bond built between Americans and the Chinese has made the TikTok ban monumental. This is an event that has never occurred before but will be remembered forever.
Instead of dwelling over TikTok being banned, users should shift their perspective and appreciate having the opportunity of not being completely deprived of a social media platform. It will be far more beneficial to embrace the mix of American and Chinese culture on RedNote, where languages and laughs shall continue to be shared.
TikTok’s removal in America may not be the end of the world at all.
