Prince Harry and Meghan Markle issued a scathing statement criticizing Meta’s recent policy changes amid the ongoing catastrophe in Southern California. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been actively involved in wildfire relief efforts near their home in Montecito, criticized the tech giant for its decision to overhaul its fact-checking program in favor of a “ Community Notes” similar to X (formerly Twitter). ).
In their strongly worded message, Harry and Meghan warned that Meta’s new approach should “worry us all.” They expressed particular alarm over the company’s apparent abandonment of diversity and equity commitments.
“We are particularly alarmed by plans to abandon commitments to diversity and equity, along with internal policy changes that undermine protections for marginalized communities.” his statement said.
The pair highlighted the broader implications of Meta’s decision, especially for vulnerable populations. “These decisions reflect what the experts, “Complainants and families have raised online harms in hearings, especially as it relates to children’s safety: platform design, dictated by internal policies, directly determines our online experience.”
Meta’s policy change, which includes the elimination of its fact-checking program, was heavily criticized by the Sussexes for prioritizing profits over public safety. “By announcing these changes undoubtedly in response to political winds, they once again abandon public safety in favor of profit, chaos and control,” they stated.
The couple accused Meta of betraying their stated values. “The company’s decision to roll back protections is so far removed from its stated values and commitments to its users (including parents and families calling for changes around the world) that it is now deeply misleading.” they said.
In their statement, Harry and Meghan also warned that these changes would allow “further abuse” and normalize hate speech. “The normalization of hate speech serves to silence speech and expression, not encourage it,” they stated. His comments come as Southern California faces devastating wildfires just 90 miles from the Sussexes’ home.
The couple has been actively involved in relief efforts and came out on Friday to help with aid distribution and make a monetary donation to support the victims. Harry and Meghan’s criticism of Meta underscores their commitment to social justice and their continued advocacy against online harm, particularly for vulnerable communities and families.