NAACP Condemns Meta’s Reversal on Content Safety, Calls for Congressional Action

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 8, 2025 

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON - This week, tech giant Meta announced that it  would dismantle its content moderation program in the name of 'free speech' amidst the incoming Presidential Administration. The move comes as Americans experience a rise in post-election acts of hate, including a stream of racist text messages targeting Black Americans and a neo-nazi march in Ohio. 

NAACP President & CEO, Derrick Johnson released the following statement condemning the policy reversal and calling on Congress to pass the Kids Online Safety Act:

"We've said it before and we'll say it again - hate speech is not free speech. Meta's recent decision leaves millions of users - including children - vulnerable to rapidly growing hate speech, mis, and disinformation. The NAACP refuses to stand idly by and watch the floodgates open to hateful and violent rhetoric that has the power to endanger our society far beyond the depths of the internet. We urge Congress to meet the moment and pass the Online Kids Safety Act to protect our children, families, and communities. Anything short of swift, decisive action poses an extreme threat to our democracy. Hate can't wait. It's time to do your jobs."

The NAACP has been a staunch advocate for online safety measures and continues to speak out against the failures of tech giants who profit at the hands of dangerous policies. In 2018, the Association organized a worldwide "logout" campaign in response to continued policy failures disproportionately impacting the Black community.

To learn more about NAACP's work to fight hate and extremism, visit  our website.

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The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.