Washington, D.C. — As part of the #StopHateforProfit coalition calling on advertisers to pause all ad spending on Facebook, People For the American Way President Ben Jealous released the following statement:
“People For the American Way stands in solidarity with and endorses the #StopHateforProfit campaign. Let’s be clear: For far too long Facebook’s platforms have done very little to stop the spread of hate and racism. They have been silent on the trafficking of dangerous conspiracy theories and misinformation aimed at voter suppression. Facebook is allowing the spread of hateful messages that attack the heart of our democracy, while generating billions of dollars in profits. No company should be okay with promoting hate, bigotry, racism, antisemitism and violence. We fully expect Facebook to meet the #StopHateForProfit coalition’s demands by preventing lies in political ads, closing down groups associated with violence, and allowing victims of severe harassment to immediately reach a live Facebook representative for help. Facebook must stop promoting the spread of racism, racial hatred and violence."
About People For the American Way
People For the American Way is a progressive advocacy organization founded to fight right-wing extremism and build a democratic society that implements the ideals of freedom, equality, opportunity and justice for all. We encourage civic participation, defend fundamental rights, and fight to dismantle systemic barriers to equitable opportunity. Learn more: https://www.pfaw.org.