Meta failing to moderate ‘extreme anti-trans hate’ on its platforms, claims report
Sign up for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
An investigation into Meta, the parent company of popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Threads, has revealed concerning findings regarding the moderation of hateful content. A report released by GLAAD on Wednesday alleges that Meta is failing to adequately moderate “extreme anti-trans hate” on its platforms, despite having policies in place to ban transphobia.
According to the GLAAD report, posts containing transphobic slurs, “groomer” claims, and promotion of conversion therapy were found to be prevalent on Meta’s platforms. This is in direct violation of the company’s own hateful content policies, which prohibit such behavior. The report also highlighted that even after more than 250 celebrities, including Elliot Page and Laverne Cox, signed an open letter urging Meta to address the issue of anti-trans hate last June, the problem persists.
Examples cited in the report include posts that misgendered or deadnamed trans individuals, promoted violence against them, or engaged in targeted harassment. Despite these clear violations of policy, Meta reportedly either deemed the posts non-violative or simply failed to take action against them. The report also noted that accounts spreading conspiracy theories and violent rhetoric often had a large following, further amplifying the harmful impact of their content.
GLAAD warned that the dissemination of “dehumanizing tropes” and “fear-mongering” on social media can have real-world consequences, particularly when perpetuated by anti-LGBTQ+ extremists. The organization called out Meta for allowing such hate to flourish on its platforms, accusing the company of actively choosing to ignore the safety concerns and threats faced by LGBTQ+ users.
In response to the report, Meta reiterated its stance on hate speech, stating that it has zero tolerance for such content on its platforms. The company emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for users to express themselves without fear of discrimination or attack based on their identity. However, the findings of the GLAAD report suggest that Meta’s enforcement of these policies may be lacking.
PinkNews reached out to Meta for comment on the report but has yet to receive a response. The failure to adequately moderate “extreme anti-trans hate” on its platforms raises serious concerns about Meta’s commitment to upholding its own values and ensuring the safety and well-being of all users.
In conclusion, the GLAAD report sheds light on a troubling pattern of inaction and silence from Meta when it comes to addressing hateful content targeting the transgender community. As calls for accountability grow louder, it remains to be seen whether Meta will take meaningful steps to rectify this issue and create a more inclusive and supportive online environment for all individuals.
Follow us on: Facebook for more LGBTQ+ news and updates at TrueQueer.
transphobia
