In July 2020, Facebook’s policies for addressing hate speech came under increasing global scrutiny as big businesses boycotted advertising on the platform. In response to this moment, UK charities joined forces to pause, take stock of what was happening and bring recommendations of change to the social media owners.
As charities, we recognise that these platforms have a role to play in allowing us to connect with supporters and beneficiaries from all backgrounds. But we also know that not enough is being done to stop posts which incite hate and violence being made visible. No one should have to see these messages in their day to day lives, and especially not when trying to access ongoing information and support.
We have seven work streams, each collaborating to create a variety of resources and recommendations. We aim to help to prevent online hate, to better support our beneficiaries, staff, volunteers and supporters and to deliver on our promises as charities.
Proposing functional changes to social media platforms.
Looking at ethical marketing practices for the sector.
Exploring the experiences for both beneficiaries and staff/volunteers on social media, involvement in shaping this project and bringing about change through telling stories and lobbying policy-makers and social media companies.
Leveraging existing contacts to help generate awareness and meaningful change.
Reviewing ethical partner policies for the sector and impact on wider fundraising.
Collating existing data and information on the impact of hate speech.
Supporting the delivery of comms for the group.