‘The True Person of the Year:’ Social Media Critiques TIME’s Person of the Year Nominees and Suggests an Alternative

Historically, TIME Magazine has had its share of controversial and, at times, downright offensive choices for its Person of the Year. Social media users today are echoing similar sentiments regarding the nominees for 2024. In a classic internet move, many have suggested an alternate candidate whom they believe is more deserving of this recognition.

Disclaimer: This article discusses sensitive subjects related to sexual assault. Reader discretion is advised.

Controversy Surrounds TIME’s 2024 Nominees

The official list for TIME Magazine’s prestigious Person of the Year has sparked heated debates. The shortlist features prominent figures, yet the nominations of Elon Musk, Joe Rogan, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have drawn significant backlash online. Critics on social media have labeled some nominees as profoundly problematic, with one user calling it the “worst blunt rotation ever.”

A Call for Gisèle Pelicot

In contrast to those controversial figures, a growing number of X (formerly Twitter) users advocate for Gisèle Pelicot to be recognized this year. One user tweeted, “The REAL person of the year: Gisèle Pelicot,” a sentiment that resonated widely with others who expressed disbelief that Joe Rogan was nominated while Pelicot was omitted.

the REAL person of the year: gisèle pelicot? https://t.co/pW2gagVIrw pic.twitter.com/yNTTkuyMJG

— ‏ً (@bvblers) December 9, 2024

The Meaning Behind Person of the Year

It is crucial to note that the Person of the Year title does not serve as an endorsement; rather, it is intended to honor individuals (or groups) who have made significant impacts in the world during the past year, whether those impacts are viewed positively or negatively. Many believe that Pelicot’s influence on societal perspectives around sexual assault far outweighs that of Joe Rogan.

TIME magazine made a terrible mistake in failing to nominate Gisèle Pelicot for person of the year. Her stand is, I think, changing societal views about sexual stigma – all done in the hope that future victims won’t ever feel ashamed about coming forward again. It’s breathtaking https://t.co/HkNvs0JTlY

— Madeline Grant (@Madz_Grant) December 10, 2024

“Shame Must Change Sides”

Gisèle Pelicot, a 72-year-old from Mazan, France, suffered horrific abuse at the hands of her husband, Dominique Pelicot, for nearly a decade. His actions extended beyond his own assaults, as he permitted 51 other men to attack her, documenting these brutal acts on camera. In a remarkable show of bravery, Gisèle waived her anonymity during the trials, thereby illuminating ongoing discussions about rape culture, which was her intention from the start.

Time’s Person of the Year, if I were choosing, it would be GISELE PELICOT. She is reshaping women’s history and the notion of raped women as victims. “The shame is not ours; the shame is on the other side.”https://t.co/9YkfqokOr0

— Carol Drinkwater (@Carol4OliveFarm) December 10, 2024

A Movement of Awareness

Pelicot emphasized that her decision to speak out was driven by the desire to foster awareness, stating, “When you’re raped, there is shame, and it’s not for us to have shame—it’s for them.” Her courageous stance has inspired numerous individuals to march in protest against sexual violence, galvanizing support across the globe. Given her profound impact and trailblazing efforts against abuse, it is clear why many advocate for Gisèle Pelicot’s nomination for Person of the Year.

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