Twitch streamer Hasan Piker has some clear opinions about Twitch’s moderation policies. The leftist activist recently blasted the platform for banning viewers who used the “C-word” in his chat, calling the decision “stupid” and accusing Twitch of glaring double standards.
Hasan’s spicy take has ignited a firestorm of debate within the Twitch community. Many Twitch viewers agree with the 32-year-old streamer and argue that Twitch inconsistently enforces its policies. Others have pushed back, insisting that racial slurs have no place on the platform, regardless of context.
The “C-word” debate has been going on between Hasan and his haters for the better of three years. At the heart of the arguments is a thorny question: Can white people experience racism? Hasan and his supporters say no, claiming that the “C-word” is nothing compared to the slurs faced by people of color.
Opposing communities on Twitch disagree with him, and so does Twitch’s leadership. Previously, the streamer has received weeklong bans for the use of the “C-word”. But the debate has resurfaced under his latest beef with Ludwig and other streamers.
Twitch’s moderation has faced criticism before. The platform has a long history of banning streamers. Sometimes for more or less obvious reasons. The mysterious ban of Dr Disrespect is a famous example of Twitch’s opaque decision-making.
