Conservative political commentator Xaviaer DuRousseau has publicly criticized the recent resurgence of "white squares" on social media, labeling the phenomenon as an example of the "woke right." In a recent tweet, DuRousseau stated, "White squares??? Y’all are now doing WHITE LIVES MATTER SQUARES???? Acting like the woke Left doesn’t 'point out the double-standard.' If both sides do the same thing, then it’s just THE STANDARD. This is the woke right."
The use of "white squares" on social media emerged in 2020 as a counter-response to #BlackoutTuesday, a movement where users posted black squares in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. These white squares were often accompanied by hashtags such as #WhiteoutTuesday and phrases like "WHITE LIVES MATTER," aiming to promote a contrasting message. More recently, figures like Texas pastor Joel Webbon have referenced posting white squares as a reversal of the black squares, linking it to broader discussions around race and social issues.
DuRousseau, a prominent voice in the Gen Z conservative movement, is known for his transformation from a progressive activist to a conservative Republican. He previously participated in Black Lives Matter protests and supported Bernie Sanders but shifted his views after extensive research into right-wing politics. He now works as a host for PragerU and maintains a significant online presence, often critiquing aspects of both liberal and conservative ideologies.
His recent tweet highlights a nuanced perspective within the conservative sphere, suggesting that when counter-movements mimic the tactics they criticize, they risk becoming part of the very "standard" they initially opposed. DuRousseau's commentary underscores the ongoing evolution of social media activism, where digital symbols and performative actions are constantly debated and reinterpreted across the political spectrum.