“I Matter” Program

What is it?

This Division of Intercollegiate Athletics is initiating a social media program that supports our Fighting Illini Student-Athletes and Coaches from social harassment and promotes social media responsibility.  

Why does it matter?

As we strive to support our Fighting Illini against the impacts of negative social media, especially after undesired athletic performance outcomes, we have created the “I Matter” Program. The purpose of this program is to target hate speech and humanize the Student-Athletes and Coaches behind the Block I. Additionally, this program creates a platform for inclusiveness amongst our Illini community, regardless of gender, race, religious, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation differences.

How can I be involved?

Take Action – “I Matter” Program

Research demonstrates that 40% of athletes between the ages of 18-21 experience negative social media harassment. Join us in lowering this percentage by engaging in this anti-social media harassment program and raising the bar on social media consciousness. Here are a variety of ways to engage in this program:

• Amplify the voices of Illini Student-Athletes and Coaches on anti-social media harassment by reposting social media content that can be found on Instagram and Twitter here: @IlliniAthletics
• Report social media harassment by tagging @Illini_Matter
• Use the #IMatter hashtag and share with us why you support this program
• Participate in upcoming social media civility education released by @IlliniAthletics

Navigating Social Media Harassment 

• If you come across social media content that may be upsetting, stop to determine the possible situation
• Social media users may respond to social events, athletic performances, and sporting outcomes inappropriately
• Social media harassment may also be influenced by current trends or referring to another movement that is not as clear
• Responding directly or immediately to the offender may bring more conflict
• Recognizing harassment and responding with harassment can encourage the offender to continue their aggressive behavior

Reporting Social Media Harassment

• If you come across social media content that may be upsetting or appears to be harassing our Fighting Illini, please report it to the respective social media platform:
  • X: https://help.twitter.com/en/safety-and-security/report-abusive-behavior
  • Instagram: https://help.instagram.com/contact/188391886430254  
  • Snap Chat: https://support.snapchat.com/en-US/a/report-abuse-in-app
  • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/safety/en/bullying-prevention/

How is the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics involved?

An internal committee was formed to bring awareness of the negative impacts social media harassment has on Illini Student-athletes and Coaches. One of their initiatives is the “I Matter” program, which raises awareness and provides education on social media harassment. Also, internal practices have been implemented to further support and protect Illini Student-Athletes and Coaches being socially harassed.