"Do I NEED to use hashtags here?"
Short version: No.
Long version: CounterSocial does not have any algorithms to direct people towards the content they like or spare them from the content they don't. This means that hashtags are a considerate way to help other people to curate their own experience.
Columns can be configured to show or omit chosen hashtags, which makes hashtags important, but not required. #CoSoTips
@CoSoTips what if it's mellowing my harsh?