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Major Advertisers Boycott Facebook Over Hate Speech and Misinformation

Big names like Unilever and Verizon are pulling ads from Facebook. They want the platform to do more to tackle hate speech and misinformation.

In the picture there is a newspaper front page. There are many advertisements and headlines are...
In the picture there is a newspaper front page. There are many advertisements and headlines are mentioned in the newspaper.

Major Advertisers Boycott Facebook Over Hate Speech and Misinformation

Facebook faces a boycott from major advertisers, led by groups like NAACP and Free Press, due to concerns over hate speech and misinformation. Meanwhile, prominent figures like Mark Zuckerberg and Noam Chomsky have weighed in on the debate surrounding the social media giant.

The boycott, which includes companies such as Unilever, Verizon, LEGO, and Pepsi, is a response to Facebook's perceived lack of action against divisive speech and conspiracy theories. Despite meeting with boycott organizers, Facebook executives have yet to implement significant changes, leaving campaign leaders disappointed.

News organizations find themselves in a delicate position, dependent on Facebook for distribution, but uncomfortable with its handling of content moderation. Patrick Crewdson, editor-in-chief of Stuff, remains open to collaborating with Facebook, suggesting a mixed response from the industry.

Both Mark Zuckerberg and Noam Chomsky have spoken out against cancel culture this week. Chomsky, along with other luminaries, signed 'A Letter on Justice and Open Debate' published by Harper's Magazine, calling for more nuance in addressing intolerance and extremism through free exchange of information and ideas.

The boycott, now joined by major advertisers, highlights growing concerns about Facebook's role in spreading hate speech and misinformation. While Facebook has met with organizers, concrete actions remain elusive. The debate continues, with prominent voices like Zuckerberg and Chomsky offering their perspectives.

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