Members of Meta's Civil Rights Advisory Group have voiced serious concerns regarding recent changes to the company's content moderation policies. In a letter addressed to Mark Zuckerberg, they criticized the policy adjustments, stating that they would allow more harmful content on Meta's platforms and degrade the quality of information accessible to users.
The group expressed dismay over not being consulted about these significant revisions, which they believe demonstrate a disregard for Meta's diverse user base. They argued that these changes contradict Meta’s professed commitment to free speech.
The new Hateful Conduct policy was highlighted as particularly troubling. It permits content that could be discriminatory towards LGBTQ individuals, immigrants, and people with disabilities. The advisory group warned that this could lead to increased harassment and marginalization of these communities.
Moreover, the group criticized the planned elimination of fact-checkers in favor of a community notes-style system in the United States. They emphasized that fact-checking is essential for fostering informed debate and should not be misconstrued as censorship.
In their letter, signed by organizations including GLAAD and NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc., the advisory group offered their expertise to help craft more inclusive policies moving forward.
