Denise Welch has delivered a scathing critique of social media, claiming it 'incites hatred in everybody' during her appearance at the Attitude Pride Awards in London on Friday. The 68-year-old Loose Women panellist, known for her forthright opinions, did not mince words as she addressed the toxic environment fostered online.
Welch's Blunt Message on Social Media
While on stage at the event attended by The Mirror, the former Coronation Street star spoke about the need for open conversations but admitted that social media often brings out the worst in people. 'Social media just incites hatred in everybody, you know. Even politically, I liked a dress that a Jewish friend of mine was wearing, and then I got hit upon by people saying I didn't care about the genocide, and it's just we don't have discussions anymore,' she said.
Praise for the Attitude Awards
Welch highlighted the awards as a shining example of positivity. 'I just think that some of the people who do form this hatred and division, if they could be in this room, and if they could see some of the people who've been awarded. I'm so privileged to sit on the table with two of the award winners up there, to see these films, which, well done, it's you, they're the best films I've ever seen made, I think, at an award zone, and I just don't know what they're hating on.'
Criticism of Mindless Hatred
She added that many people engage in hatred without understanding their motivations. 'They don't know what they're protesting against, they're just doing it to sort of fit in, and because social media, which is what most people are looking at every day... it's just, we're filled with it all, and as I say, I just will remain an ally and do the best that I can.'
Emotional Plea for Acceptance
Welch expressed deep sadness over children being made to feel small for who they are. 'Nothing upsets me more than the thought of a child being made to feel small for who they are,' she said. The event also saw host Emma Willis, the new Strictly presenter, become emotional as she spoke about her three children—Isabelle, 17, Ace, 14, and Trixie, 10—with Busted's Matt Willis. 'I've got three kids and I want to live in a world where they are free to be themselves, where they feel safe to express themselves in whatever way they choose. And that they are free to love whoever they choose without fear,' she said through tears.
Willis Calls Herself an Ally
Willis declared the awards the most important of the year, saying, 'We are shining a light on the real people who make a real difference.' She proudly called herself an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and urged attendees to call on her whenever needed. 'All you have to do is shine a glitter ball into the sky and I will come running any time of the day,' she added.
