TikTok, known for its unique algorithm that tailors content based on user interaction, played a significant role in shaping my experience on the platform this week. After watching a couple of videos about the devastating fires in Maui, my For You Page became flooded with content from creators in Hawaii.
One prevailing topic emerged from these videos: the debate on whether tourists should avoid visiting Maui in the aftermath of the deadly fires. Questions were raised about the impact of travel on unaffected areas of Maui and the broader Hawaiian archipelago. Would it strain limited resources during this crisis?
I had the opportunity to connect with Kate Ducheneau, a TikTok creator from Lahaina, who evacuated with her family during the fires. She expressed her difficulty in witnessing tourists in the area. While her house survived, it suffered extensive damage. One incident at Target struck an emotional chord with her. While waiting in line for a Starbucks coffee, she noticed a couple of tourists wearing puka shell necklaces and casually discussing their plans for a “staycation” with their rental car. Overwhelmed, Kate burst into tears.
In her TikTok videos, Kate, who gained thousands of followers by sharing her experiences during the fire, urged potential visitors to stay away from Maui. Her video, with over two million views, pleaded with viewers to cancel their trips. She emphasized that her intention was not to discourage tourism but rather to request that Lahaina be given time to heal and rebuild before visitors return.
Kailee Soong, a spiritual mentor residing in Waikapu, Maui, echoed Kate’s sentiments on TikTok, where she has a substantial following. She criticized tourists for being in the way during a time of mourning for residents, considering the loss of loved ones, buildings, and cultural heritage. Soong emphasized the need for tourists to respect the grief and refrain from engaging in recreational activities while locals mourned.
In collaboration with my colleague Christine Chung, I penned a comprehensive piece for the Travel desk, delving into the conflicting messages surrounding tourism in Maui. Depending on whom you ask, the right course of action varies. Daniel Kalahiki, who operates a food truck in Wailuku, expressed concern about further harm to Maui, emphasizing the need for the island to recover from the devastation it has already endured.
One remarkable aspect of TikTok is the platform it provides for ordinary individuals to report on significant events. During Hurricane Ian in Florida last year, I spoke with several people who live-streamed the storm for thousands. As TikTok becomes the go-to search engine for younger generations, it is crucial to discern the authenticity of the content. Nevertheless, for potential tourists considering a trip to Maui, the voices that matter most are those of the locals profoundly affected by their visit. These voices resonate on TikTok.
Now, shifting our attention to other online happenings this week, TikTok in the European Union faces an intriguing change. Users in the EU will gain the ability to disable the app’s algorithm, as mandated by the Digital Services Act. While there are concerns surrounding the effects of TikTok’s algorithm, it undeniably excels in catering precisely to users’ preferences and interests. Whether you’re a Swiftie or have unique passions like pottery, TikTok delivers tailored content. Opting out of the algorithm will expose users to a mixed feed based on the interests of other TikTok users. It remains uncertain whether users will enjoy this change.
In conclusion, TikTok’s algorithm significantly impacted my feed this week, shedding light on the Maui fires and the ongoing discussion on tourism. The platform enables real people to share their stories and perspectives. Additionally, the EU’s algorithm disabling feature on TikTok raises questions about the trade-off between privacy and personalized content. Only time will tell how users respond to this change.
– Callie Holtermann
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