In a shocking move, Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, has updated its hate speech guidelines to allow users to call people mentally ill based on their sexuality or gender identity. This change has sparked widespread concern and outrage among the LGBT+ community and its allies. The updated guidelines state that “allegations of mental illness or abnormality” are permitted when based on gender or sexual orientation, citing “political and religious discourse about transgenderism and homosexuality” as the reason.
This decision has been met with criticism from prominent LGBT+ organizations, including Stonewall, the UK’s largest LGBT+ charity. Stonewall’s chief executive, Simon Blake, has expressed deep concern over the update, stating that it “puts politics above people” and risks furthering division instead of fostering community. The charity has requested a meeting with Meta to discuss their concerns and the potential harm this change could cause to marginalized groups.
The move has also raised questions about the impact on online discourse and the potential for increased hate speech and harassment. By allowing users to make derogatory comments about people’s mental health based on their gender or sexual orientation, Meta may be creating a toxic environment that undermines the well-being and safety of LGBT+ individuals.
It’s worth noting that Meta’s decision to update its guidelines comes at a time when the company is shifting its approach to content moderation. The company has announced that it will scrap third-party fact-checkers and replace them with a system similar to X’s “community notes.” This change has been seen as a move towards prioritizing free speech over protecting users from harmful content.
While Meta claims that its platforms are built to allow people to express themselves freely, this update has sparked fears that the company is compromising on its commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all users. As the LGBT+ community and its allies continue to advocate for greater protections and respect, it’s essential that companies like Meta listen to their concerns and prioritize the well-being and safety of marginalized groups.
In a time when minority rights, including LGBT+ rights, are already under threat, it’s crucial that we promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusivity. By standing together and advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals, we can create a more just and equitable society where everyone can thrive. The LGBT+ community deserves respect, protection, and support, and it’s essential that companies like Meta take a strong stance against hate speech and discrimination.