Bumble Faces Backlash for ‘Sexist’ Billboard Campaign
Bumble, the popular dating app known for its female-first approach, is facing criticism for a recent billboard campaign that has been labeled as ‘sexist’ and ‘anti-women’. The controversial posters, which have been spotted in major cities, including on the London Underground, have sparked discussions on social media about victim-blaming and misogynistic language.
One of the billboards, shared on social media by user @blobwithagob, reads: ‘Thou shalt not give up on dating and become a nun,’ followed by the tagline “introducing the new Bumble.” This post has gained over 2.4 million views and has led to backlash against the app. Many users argue that Bumble should focus on running ads targeting men to encourage normal behavior instead of trying to shame women into using the app.
@Kyazike commented on the issue, suggesting that Bumble should improve its algorithms instead of creating sexist advertisements. The controversy has prompted thousands of women to express their discontent, with some even threatening to boycott the app. @aurorasumee described the campaign as ‘absolutely tone deaf’ while @motelflesh labeled it as ‘anti-women’.
Another billboard that reads ‘A vow of celibacy is not the answer’ has also faced criticism. @vaglnapolice commented that it appears women who date men are choosing to say no to meaningless hookups and stranger danger, which is causing problems for the apps and men on them. Content creator Sophie Milner, who has previously worked with Bumble, highlighted the issue of women constantly being told they need to change their behavior.
The backlash against Bumble’s billboard campaign highlights the ongoing discussions surrounding sexism and misogyny in the dating app industry. The company has yet to respond to the controversy.
Critics are claiming that the new Bumble billboards are specifically targeting women, rather than addressing the reasons why women are turning away from dating apps. Sophie, a spokesperson, believes that this shift is due to women “evolving” and no longer accepting men’s behavior. Women are demanding more compassion, kindness, equality, shared values, and emotional intelligence, while men are not keeping up.
Marina Lazaris, a love coach and relationships writer, finds it interesting that Bumble, the app where women choose men, has called out women. She suggests that this may indicate that women are tired of chasing men.
The new Bumble billboards have sparked backlash among women who date men. It seems that women are saying no to meaningless hookups and stranger danger, causing the apps and the men on them to suffer. Women are choosing celibacy, and Bumble is facing the consequences. The company is being urged to stay mad.
Aside from the backlash against Bumble, there are broader potential consequences associated with this campaign. Psychologist and sex and relationships advisor, Barbara Santini, explains that ads perpetuating stereotypes by objectifying women or portraying them solely as domestic caretakers can have damaging effects on women’s self-esteem and sense of agency. These messages not only limit women’s aspirations but also contribute to the normalization of gender inequality. Santini emphasizes the need for Bumble to adopt a multifaceted approach that addresses any potential harm and prioritizes ethical and responsible messaging that respects the dignity and autonomy of all individuals.
In response to the public reaction, Bumble acknowledges the perspectives they have heard. They recognize that celibacy may be the only answer for some due to continuous restrictions on reproductive rights. They also respect celibacy as a personal choice and acknowledge its significance within the asexual community. Bumble is aware that celibacy may be a result of harm or trauma for many individuals.
BUMBLE APOLOGIZES FOR AD CAMPAIGN AND PLEDGES SUPPORT FOR VICTIMS OF ABUSE
Dating app Bumble has issued a public apology for a recent advertising campaign that caused offense. The company expressed regret for not upholding its values of supporting women and marginalized communities. In an official statement, Bumble acknowledged the harm caused by the campaign and promised to remove the ads from its global marketing efforts.
As part of its efforts to make amends, Bumble announced that it would be making a donation to the National Domestic Violence Hotline and other organizations that work to support women, marginalized communities, and those affected by abuse. In addition, these organizations will have the opportunity to display their own ads in place of Bumble’s posters.
Despite these actions, Bumble still has work to do in order to regain the trust of those who were offended. The company concluded its apology by assuring women that they are cared for and that Bumble will always be there to support them. It remains to be seen if these measures will be enough to repair the damage caused by the controversial ad campaign.
