Victoria’s 4-H PageMy name is Bridget, I am the mother to an intelligent, resilient, independent, strong, beautiful daughter named Victoria. Victoria & I are Admins of this Page. Two days ago when I shared Victoria’s picture, it was shared with a private FB group called Vegan Revolution, with 40K members, by an individual on my ‘friends’ list. I was made aware of this individual stealing Victoria’s photo by a complete stranger who felt the need to inform me since Victoria is a minor and he felt compelled to inform her parent. I privately messaged the ‘friend’ and requested they remove it immediately. She deleted the photo and apologized, stating she didn’t think about it fully and her intention was not to have Victoria harassed. Within the half hour Victoria’s picture and my words were displayed it was seen and shared enough in that short time to create what most of you have witnessed. She was bombarded with criticism-messages, comments, photos, and reactions. The large majority of theses interactions were aggressive, demeaning, vulgar, and hateful. The second comment that was made Victoria was called disgusting. Victoria replied to the individual and respectfully told them that they have very different views and they did not have a right to judge her. The comments poured in and as a mother I went into protect mode and deleted and blocked people. This upset Victoria. She asked me to NOT delete people’s comments. She told me that everyone is entitled to their opinion, that people could say what they wanted on her page, that what they say only displays their character, and she has nothing to hide. She has been on this Earth for 14 short years and at that point and time I felt she was wiser than me. So I respected her request. My husband and I decided to take a different angle and reach out for support from our FB families, our community, as well as the US farming community. Her followers have gone from 55 to over 700 in 48 hours. The positive messages, stories, encouragement has had her and I in tears on a few occasions. Victoria has received messages and comments from people all over the world, 4H members, former FFA, and many many more. I APPRECIATE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU IMMENSELY!!!!!!!!!!
Many individuals were reported to FB for harassment by others and many have been banned now from the page. NOT because they have different views, NOT because they live a different lifestyle, NOT because we are ‘better’ people. Because views, choices, and decisions are not swayed by name calling, aggression, or belittling. It has only made her stronger, and her SUPPORT stronger, clearly🙂 This is Victoria’s Page, support her or dont, that is your CHOICE. Just like it’s Victoria’s CHOICE to participate in 4-H.
Victoria’s 4-H Page will Remain Public, because like she said she has nothing to hide. 🍀💚
