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A beloved preschool creator is facing backlash for sharing her opinions on a number of hot-button topics. Rachel Griffin Accurso, known to her legion of YouTube fans as Ms. Rachel, has stood her ground on two major topics in the news — the Israel-Hamas war and Pride Month.
On June 1st, Ms. Rachel kicked off Pride Month by wishing families a Happy Pride, to the dismay of some vocal viewers in her comments. Noting Ms. Rachel’s previous references to some Christian ideas, some viewers didn’t anticipate seeing her support the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ms. Rachel Responded to the Backlash
This is far from the first time Ms. Rachel has received criticism over the inclusiveness of her content. Responding to the most recent backlash, the create offered a genuine explanation of why her own religious beliefs support her decision to love and leave space for people of all backgrounds and different walks of life.
There are still fans who weren’t satisfied with what she had to say. Some right-wing creators are leading the charge for people to boycott her YouTube videos. A mom herself, Griffin Accurso approaches the situation with acceptance and hopes for change, as she explained in a statement to NBC.
We have met so many wonderful families who watch the show, all with different beliefs, religions and political views. We treat everyone with empathy and respect. I think it’s important to find common ground, and we all want what’s best for our little ones. I believe there should be less division and more dialogue.
Ms. Rachel, NBC News
The firm stance comes after the creator took another stand on her platform. After announcing a fundraiser benefitting the nonprofit Save the Children, she was accused of not caring about all kids in her stance, which she tearfully disputed.
Some Say They’ll Boycott Her Channel While Others Double Down in Their Support
Any parent who has spent a minute watching her YouTube content can see she is genuine. A mom and educator herself, her goal is always the best interest of the kids. She doubled down on this in the caption.
I care deeply for all children. Palestinian children, Israeli children, children in the US – Muslim, Jewish, Christian children – all children, in every country. Not one is excluded.
Ms. Rachel/ Instagram
While some fans were appreciative that she spoke out, others slammed Ms. Rachel. Many believe it’s not her place to comment. The matters are universal, but as a kid’s creator, some parents would prefer to see her remain neutral. Other families value speaking out and the example that sets.
Alternatives have been presented by different internet communities, but that doesn’t seem to make a dent in Ms. Rachel’s viewership. However, no one has come close to Ms. Rachel’s influence. There is something to be said for a genuine personality speaking from the heart, regardless of your own opinions. In continuing to support Ms. Rachel, parents are resoundingly agreeing that it’s those genuine personalities that we want to help guide out children.
