A call by the president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for women to undertake a 10-day social media fast has sparked varied responses, particularly among those who rely on online platforms for their jobs, families, or political campaigns.
Russell M Nelson, the church's 17th president, made the request during a women-only session of a church conference on 6 October. He invited women to fast from social media and other media that bring negative thoughts, suggesting the break might shift their priorities. Many women immediately logged off, viewing obedience as a sign of faithfulness.
However, for Aimee Winder Newton, a Republican seeking re-election to the Salt Lake County Council, the timing posed a challenge. She worried about her Facebook ads and constituents missing her messages. She opted to limit her social media use to 30 minutes a day, allowing her to manage campaign tasks without excessive scrolling.
Crystal Young-Otterstrom, a Democratic activist and director of the Utah Cultural Alliance, noted that many women are deciding individually how to respond, citing personal revelation. She expressed concern about the timing, given important ballot measures in Utah and the #MeToo movement, suggesting that asking women to be silent may be ill-considered.
Newton plans to maintain reduced social media use after the fast, using a timer to avoid wasted time. She does not believe the fast will harm her campaign and dismissed political motives, stating that church leaders consider a global perspective.
