Facebook and Instagram announce ban on white nationalism

Facebook has officially announced that it will no longer tolerate white nationalism and white separatism on the platform. The same policy applies to Instagram.

Facebook released a statement outlining its efforts to ban racialized hate beginning next week. They said that while they have always included bans on the hateful treatment of others based on race, ethnicity, and religion in their policies, in recent months they have decided to explore broader concepts of hate.

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Part of the statement reads:

“…over the past three months, our conversations with members of civil society and academics who are experts in race relations around the world have confirmed that white nationalism and white separatism cannot be meaningfully separated from white supremacy and organized hate groups. Our own review of hate figures and organizations – as defined by our Dangerous Individuals and Organizations policy – further revealed the overlap between white nationalism and white separatism and white supremacy. Going forward, while people will still be able to demonstrate pride in their ethnic heritage, we will not tolerate praise or support for white nationalism and white separatism.”

The statement continued by introducing a new function on Facebook’s website and app. Any time a user searches for a term associated with white supremacy or a hate group, a pop-up will appear and direct the user to Life After Hate, a non-profit organization created by former white extremists aiming to help others who are currently involved in hate groups.

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What do you think about this move by Facebook? Is this enough to truly combat hate on the platform or damage control after the discrimination accusations? Sound off in the comments!