Since her arrival on the world stage, 16 year-old Swedish environmental activist Greta Thunberg has faced derision. Mocking criticism has been aimed at Thunberg's appearance, mannerisms, facial expressions, speech patterns, intelligence, mental health and her self-disclosed Asperger's Syndrome diagnosis with the majority coming from conservative men.
On Monday, in a late-night tweet, President Donald Trump decided to similarly weigh in on Thunberg. In an example of the cyber bullying First Lady Melania Trump's Be Best campaign is supposed to address, the 73 year-old President of the United States shared video of an impassioned speech Thunberg delivered at the U.N. calling out world leaders' inaction on the climate with the caption:
"She seems like a very happy young girl looking forward to a bright and wonderful future. So nice to see!"
Alone it sounds like a nice sentiment, but paired with the video of a visibly upset Thunberg the intent to mock is clear.
But it was Greta herself who got the last laugh with a subtle dig at the President's tweet contained in her updated Twitter bio:
"A very happy young girl looking forward to a bright and wonderful future."
And people were so here for it.
As for Trump's initial attempt at humor, the Good God Above thought Trump should look in a mirror before criticizing others' attitudes.
While others commented on the lowered expectations Trump instilled for the POTUS.
Others asked why so many adult men are so upset about Greta Thunberg.
@lexialex/Twitter
Some thought petty jealousy might be a factor for at least one older man attacking Thunberg.
Many had responses directed at the President.
@AynRandPaulRyan/Twitter
The President was not the only Trump to face backlash over conservative cyberbullying of Thunberg.
The FLOTUS' pet project made many of the mentions of her husband mocking Thunberg.
Unlike many of the adults attacking her, Thunberg has handled their insults and false accusations with grace.
The President nor First Lady has responded to the backlash created by Trump's Twitter attack on Thunberg.
Show your support for Thunberg and other young climate activists with this shirt available here.
*****
Listen to the first season of George Takei's podcast, 'Oh Myyy Pod!' where we explore the racially charged videos that have taken the internet by storm.
Be sure to subscribe here and never miss an episode.
@BasedMikeLee/X
@ChrisMurphyCT/X
@cjoan223817
@wideofthepost/X
@mrmikebones/X
@USA_Polling/X
@twilitash/TikTok
@kided3263/TikTok
@itsmaybemadi/TikTok
@krysten888/TikTok
@zilennialbabe/TikTok
@treysartorius/TikTok