Over 3,000 followers of the Okay, Kingston (@okaykingston) Instagram account rely on its daily dose of memes to help locals maintain sanity amidst housing and job crises, an influx of transplants and tourists still learning to drive, and the one percent pulling the strings behind the scenes.
At first glance, memes referencing pop culture seem typical fare for social media, but read closely and you’ll see wit, humor, charm and a keen awareness of what makes Kingston tick. Its creator has managed to remain anonymous, which is good because they’re not pulling any punches. At a time of narcissistic inauthenticity masquerading as culture and community, Okay, Kingston cuts through feel-good narratives and virtue signaling to tell it like it really is from street level.
What was the inspiration to start Okay, Kingston?
Okay, Kingston: My friends and I used to make memes about whatever ridiculous thing was happening in town, just for each other. Then I saw other hyperlocal accounts popping up (The Hudson Wail is a favorite,) and figured I’d hop on the bandwagon.
How do you have such a great feel for the minute details of Kingston culture?
I was born here and have lived here my whole life. I’ve worked a ton of different jobs, volunteered with a bunch of local organizations, and just generally exist out in the world. Kingston is baked into who I am.
How do you feel about the way Kingston has reacted to your account?
It’s been really funny and kind of sweet to see how many people have gotten behind it. I’m just happy to be in a community with people who get the joke.
What motivates you to do this every day?
I started it to make myself and my friends laugh, and honestly, that’s still the only goal.
Do you consider yourself a “content creator” or is there a better way to describe what you do?
Not particularly. “Shitposter” is probably more accurate.
What have you learned in the process of doing Okay Kingston?
I’ve learned that locals are a lot more frustrated about the direction Kingston’s headed than most people seem to realize. They’re also extremely creative about how they channel that frustration, and who they aim it at. I’ve also learned a lot of people have wildly inflated internet egos, so I try to keep that in mind and avoid accidentally becoming the kind of person I’m making fun of.
Join the family! 
