Caitlyn Jenner Causes Instagram Blackout Ahead Of ESPY Awards

Caitlyn Jenner caused an Instagram blackout on the day of her ESPY Awards appearance. On Wednesday, Instagram blocked search options for the hashtag #CaitlynJenner due to a deluge of hateful comments and offensive photos. Instead of seeing recent posts, users were only able to see some positive top posts.

Jenner controversially received the Arthur Ashe Courage Award in the 2015 ESPY Awards on Wednesday. The choice was met with mixed reactions from the moment of its announcement. While others commended ESPN and Jenner for the award, others were completely opposed to the idea.

Gossip website TMZ has learned that Instagram was flooded with too many hateful comments on the day of the awards. The social media site took action and blocked users from searching posts related to the transgender reality star and former athlete.

According to TMZ, some hateful comments included: “How is this THING rewarded anything” and “You will never be a woman.” Many more offensive posts were reported, and the influx of complaints prompted Instagram to block the hastag.

After Jenner took the stage to accept her award, Instagram allowed access to the hashtag once again and a flurry of positive feedback became visible. Jenner gave a lengthy speech after receiving the Arthur Ashe Courage Award and showed off her skills as a sought-after motivational speaker.

Jenner started off with a candid and funny intro while talking about dressing up as a woman and how the U.S. national women’s soccer team did a great job with their outfits for the evening. She then went on to tackle transgender issues and bullying. She bravely stated that she can handle bullying and her success in sports and in life has equipped her enough to withstand persecution. She touched on the lives of other people who may not be as strong as she is and who may not be as fortunate to have support from their families and peers.

Jenner ended her speech by thanking her family most especially her children as well as her mother. Jenner’s mom, her sister and almost all of her children and stepchildren were in attendance to show support. The emotional speech called for acceptance, tolerance and respect.