‘Therians’, the viral phenomenon without basis that serves the ultras to fuel their 'anti-woke' discourse
The article discusses the viral phenomenon of 'therians' in Spain, which is being exploited by extreme right groups to promote anti-woke sentiments.
The recent trend of 'therians' in Spain has garnered significant media attention, despite lacking a solid basis in reality. Terms like 'therian', which refers to individuals who identify with non-human animals, have been sensationalized on social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. However, real participants of this supposed subculture seem to be scarce at reported gatherings. Instead, what has emerged is a widespread echo of similar moral panic narratives seen in other countries such as Argentina and Mexico, suggesting that the phenomenon may be more fiction than reality.
The media's enthusiasm for the bizarre aspects of the therians has amplified the discourse surrounding them, often leading to the demonization of transgender individuals in particular. Critics argue that sensationalist coverage has created an environment toxic to the marginalized communities. The practice of defining certain individuals as 'therians' has become a rallying point for ultra-right groups, calling attention to supposed threats posed by these identities which they link to their broader anti-woke agenda. This narrative serves not only to generate clicks and views but also to sow discord and hatred among the population.
Given the historical context of similar phenomena in Latin America, there are concerns about the implications of this so-called therians trend. The combination of misinformation and media sensationalism poses a threat to various marginalized groups, particularly transgender individuals, who are increasingly becoming targets of hate rhetoric. As the discourse unfolds, it will be crucial to analyze the repercussions of such viral phenomena, especially when leveraged by extremist factions to promote their agendas and foster division within society.