Endless Thread Encore: The internet's fight over dinosaur emoji
May 9, 2025
Riley Black, a science journalist and dinosaur expert, dives into the surprising connections between dinosaur emojis and contemporary social issues, particularly in the realm of trans rights. The discussion humorously highlights how these emojis have become symbols of identity, inclusion, and even controversy. Black reveals the vibrant intersection of paleontology and LGBTQ culture, while reflecting on the emoji's journey from political appropriation to a proud community emblem. Tune in for a fascinating exploration of digital symbols and their societal implications!
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Riley Black's Dinosaur Journey
- Riley Black fell in love with dinosaurs as a child visiting a museum where skeletons appeared ghostly and huge.
- She later became a paleontologist and engages with multiple dinosaur and queer communities online.
Dinosaurs and Queer Identity Link
- Many queer people, including transgender individuals, strongly identify with dinosaurs and form online communities around this interest.
- Dinosaurs symbolize complex identity themes like transformation and categorization, resonating with genderqueer experiences.
TERFs Co-opt Dinosaur Emoji
- Riley Black found dinosaur emoji co-opted by TERFs (anti-trans group) as a dog whistle symbol.
- This appropriation frustrated her because the dinosaur symbol deeply belonged to the trans and genderqueer community first.
