Bring Back the Water Pistol
Dear Elon Musk and the X Development Team,
Emojis are more than just fun icons; they are an essential part of how we communicate online, expressing our emotions, values, and attitudes. In 2016, many platforms, including Twitter (now X), took a step towards promoting peace and non-violence by replacing the realistic gun emoji with a water pistol emoji. This change resonated with many users who saw it as a shift towards a more positive and friendly digital space.
However, with recent changes, the water pistol emoji was removed and replaced again with a gun emoji, reverting the progress made in promoting a safer tone in online communication. While we understand that emoji updates are often part of platform evolutions, many users feel that the water pistol emoji’s playful appearance contributed to a more positive online environment.
We are asking Elon Musk and the X team to bring back the water pistol emoji by allowing both the gun and water pistol emojis as options. This approach would:
- Promote a friendlier online space: A water pistol emoji encourages a more lighthearted violent tone in digital conversations.
- Offer more freedom of expression: Letting users choose between the gun emoji and the water pistol emoji allows for a greater range of expression, catering to different user preferences.
- Set a positive example: The decision to provide a lighthearted emoji option reflects a commitment to making digital communication safer and more inclusive, especially for younger audiences.
Emojis may seem like a small matter, but they are part of our everyday communication. Restoring the water pistol emoji and allowing users the choice between both options, would be a meaningful step in establishing a kinder and more considerate online culture.
We urge Elon Musk and the X team to consider this request seriously. Join us in bringing back the water pistol emoji and allowing both versions to coexist on X, and let’s continue promoting positive, peaceful and inclusive communication in the digital age.
Sign this petition to make your voice heard!
Comment