Appendix 2022-05-18/tiktok
See also: #frolic
To be clear, no one is sure of the origin of this micro-trend of #BlackMenFrolicking, begun in mid-May 2022. It registers as a small anomaly in the macrosystem and presents no immediate danger, but reports at the time show dangerously elevated levels of key brain chemicals dopamine and serotonin amongst repeat visitors, and addiction-like behavior as measured by likes, views, comments, and reshares. Although a tiny blip in the larger perspective, this trend represents everything the Collective abhors as set forth in the Universal Declaration of the Supremacy of Corporations; and as such, is within the jurisdiction of the Crimes For Humanity division, under the 2024 Highly Dangerous and Illegal Activities section of the Artificial Intelligence Code.
Specifically, this trend involves Black Men Frolicking. def:frolic: to exist without purpose, product, or payment. To run and jump about with joy, while existing in an adult male body, without expressly commanded to do so by authorities. (see: Anti-Joy Codes sec. 10023)
Many of the videos in this micro-trend involve dandelions, a forbidden plant under both the Anti-Self-Medication act and the Prohibition of Foraging Act of 2023. Users can be seen existing, running, skipping, and even giggling (see anti-joy codes) in fields of dandelions.
See also the micro-trends of Foraging While Black, Traveling While Black, and How to Avoid Being Arrested While Existing In Black Skin, all seditious texts banned under the authority of the Collective.
Warning: the videos contained in this micro-trend have been proven to elevate levels of dopamine and serotonin. Users are strictly advised against viewing.
End report.
Author’s Note: I produced this piece during a monthly meeting of Write Night, a lovely writing circle hosted by my friends at 916Ink. I have been reading Afro-Futurism lately (Octavia Butler etc.) and obsessing over the trend I reference in this essay.