I am a mother deeply affected by the recent events of the pandemic and personal loss. It was during these despairing times that I found solace, laughter, and connection in an unexpected place - TikTok. This platform did not just become an essential part of my day; it built bridges over the chasms of my grief, providing me with work-from-home job opportunities, innovative food recipes, and a means to shop during lockdown. Most importantly, it was a valuable tool that helped me and my daughter further strengthen our bond.

However, it has come to my attention that the future of TikTok is being threatened by our government just because it is seen as competition that provides us with information. TikTok, remarkably, is a lifeline for thousands of businesses and creators who are looking to share their brand and build community - people like me, who are looking for a sliver of solace in these times of isolation. 

In our globalized world, many of the products we use daily, including our phones, clothes, and furniture, are made in China. So why should TikTok, also a product of China, face such discrimination? It's time for our leaders to understand that banning TikTok is not about protecting people or their data - but an unnecessary act of removal of a resource that has been aiding in building relationships, businesses, and emotional wellbeing.

As it stands, several American platforms, such as Meta, Twitter, and Instagram, collect and exploit our data. Yet, they are allowed to operate without little to no scrutiny.

Therefore, we firmly request Congress and the Supreme Court to consider our outcry, to recognize the value TikTok adds to many lives like mine, and to oppose further unfair conditioning against TikTok. Join me in standing up for this platform that has been a beacon of light in the dark times. Sign and share this petition today.