In a world where memes have become the lifeblood of internet culture, it seems that not even the most beloved and widely shared viral images are safe from the scrutinizing gaze of the media overlords. After vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance recently found himself in hot water for using a popular meme to poke fun at Kamala Harris, the media has decided it’s time to lay down some ground rules for meme usage in our increasingly sensitive, anti-Republican landscape.

The incident in question involved Vance sharing a meme of the infamous beauty pageant contestant who famously tripped over her words while answering a question, a clip that has been shared millions of times over the years. However, one vigilant news anchor took offense, insisting that the woman in the video had suffered from depression and that using the meme was not only insensitive but deserving of a public apology.

In light of this development, the media has rolled out a new set of guidelines aimed at safeguarding the dignity of those depicted in memes—whether they’re real people or fictional characters. Below is a list of iconic memes that have been deemed off-limits, each accompanied by the media’s rationale for their newfound restrictions:

1. Disaster Girl (Smiling Girl with House on Fire in the Background)

• Rule: This meme can no longer be used in any context involving misfortune or destruction. The girl, now an adult, reportedly suffers from chronic guilt over the countless fires that have been meme-ified at her expense, despite her lack of involvement in any arson. Additionally, she has never received any royalties from the widespread use of her image, and using it to symbolize chaos is now deemed exploitative.

2. Distracted Boyfriend (Man Looking at Another Woman While Holding His Girlfriend’s Hand)

• Rule: Out of respect for the original couple, this meme is banned from any depiction of infidelity or temptation. It has come to light that the man depicted actually broke up with his girlfriend shortly after the photo was taken, and later married the woman he was distracted by. Their subsequent divorce due to irreconcilable differences has turned this once-humorous meme into a symbol of personal tragedy, and it can no longer be used to represent disloyalty or poor decision-making.

3. Hide the Pain Harold (Man Smiling with Pained Expression)

• Rule: The use of this meme to depict any form of concealed pain or discomfort is now considered highly insensitive. The man behind the meme has since retired and wishes to live out his days without being reminded of the thousands of times his photo has been used to mock internal suffering. The media has decided that continuing to exploit his image is inappropriate and should be discontinued.

With these new guidelines in place, the media aims to protect the dignity and mental health of those immortalized in meme culture. After all, in today’s world, even a light-hearted meme could lead to serious consequences, and the media is here to ensure that no one’s feelings—or legacy—are hurt in the process.

So as we move forward, let us meme responsibly and remember: humor is fleeting, but sensitivity is forever.