Should TikTok collaborate with cultural experts or advocates to inform trend moderation?

Yes, TikTok collaborating with cultural experts or advocates to inform trend moderation could be highly beneficial. Here are several reasons why such collaboration would be valuable:

1. **Cultural Sensitivity**: Cultural experts can provide deep insights into various cultural nuances, traditions, and sensitivities that should be respected and considered in content moderation. This can help avoid cultural appropriation or misrepresentation.

2. **Diverse Perspectives**: Advocates from different communities can offer diverse perspectives on what is appropriate and respectful in content creation and trends. This diversity helps ensure that TikTok's platform is inclusive and respectful of all users.

3. **Education and Awareness**: Experts can educate TikTok moderators on historical and cultural contexts that may not be widely understood. This can prevent unintentional promotion of harmful stereotypes or misconceptions.

4. **Policy Development**: Collaborating with experts can aid in the development of clear guidelines and policies that align with cultural norms and values, thereby fostering a safer and more welcoming environment for users worldwide.

5. **Community Engagement**: Involving advocates and experts can strengthen TikTok's relationship with various communities by demonstrating a commitment to understanding and respecting their cultures.

In summary, integrating the knowledge and perspectives of cultural experts and advocates into trend moderation can significantly enhance TikTok's ability to foster a positive and culturally sensitive platform for its users.