This is an idea for an SNL sketch, so that when the writers are having a tough week (Alec unavailable) and are desperate, this will come up when they google “SNL sketch idea.” While I don’t necessarily stand behind this as particularly funny or on-brand for myself, I do stand behind the idea that it should come up when you google “SNL sketch idea.”
It’s a parody of anti-drug commercials, but it’s an anti-ghosting commercial. Two men in their early-twenties (i.e. wearing backwards hats) are lounging on the couch, scrolling through their phones.
Man 1: Hey, how’s things going with Vanessa?
Man 2: Vanessa? Psh, yeah, I ghosted her, man…
Man 1: GHOSTED?! Are you TOASTED? Ghosting is so uncool! It sows distrust into the minds of women who already face so much deeply-ingrained sexism and threats from violent online subcultures that seep more and more into the mainstream with each passing news cycle! As cis, heterosexual, white men, our society imbues us with disproportionate power. It’s our responsibility to wield that power responsibly by listening and communicating honestly to the best of our ability instead of striving to make our own lives as easy as possible at the expense of more marginalized groups, like so many of our peers. If you’re not feeling it with Vanessa, just let her know! Maybe you’re not right for each other, but you still owe her the respect of an explanation so she understands what happened and can continue pursuing healthy romantic relationships with confidence. And, hey, maybe she has some feedback for you that would be valuable for you to hear and apply to future relationships. Keep an open mind, and don’t get defensive. If you approach her with good intentions, she’s more than likely to return the favor to you! After all, we’re all just trying to find love and companionship in a world that, let’s face it, is kind of scary a lot of the time!
Man 2: You’re right, I never thought of it that way! I’ll text Vanessa back right now. ‘Hey—, just saw this—, can I—come over later? We— should— talk.’
Man 1 (to camera): That’s right, guys. Ghosting is messed up. Don’t do it!
Voiceover: This message was paid for by the Women’s Council for Social Justice.
Jen Cantin 