The official Star Wars Twitter account has issued a statement in support of Krystina Arielle, host of Star Wars: The High Republic Show, after she was subjected to targeted harassment online.
"Our Star Wars community is one of hope and inclusivity," the tweet reads. "We do not stand for bullying and racism. We support [Krystina Arielle]."
Arielle was recently announced as the host of The High Republic Show, an upcoming bi-monthly web series that will feature deep dives with the creators behind Lucasfilm's Star Wars: The High Republic publishing initiative. Shortly after the announcement, various tweets made by Arielle where she condemned racism in the United States and offered her personal thoughts and experiences regarding the issue were dug up and circulated. These tweets were misrepresented as Arielle calling all white people racist, leading to online harassment.
Amidst all of this, however, many also took to social media to show support for Arielle -- including her friends, fans and colleagues -- leading the hashtag #IStandWithKrystina to trend on Twitter. "Hi. [Krystina Arielle] rules," said Anthony Carboni, host of Lucasfilm's The Star Wars Show. "She's a wonderful addition to the Star Wars family and I'm excited for her to be bringing us updates on all the very good High Republic news. Go say hi and give her a warm welcome today, would you?"
Matthew Mercer, host of Critical Role (on which Arielle has appeared) also chimed in, writing, "There are few as bright, badass and altogether wonderful as [Krystina Arielle], and anyone who tries to step into her ring better know we're right there beside her."
Source: Twitter\@StarWars