Today we’re checking in on actions to Do Something about Misinformation.
The Facebook papers
Ugh. I hate this. If you haven’t heard about it already, read up on the Facebook Papers, which “provide an unprecedented view into how executives at the social media giant weigh trade-offs between public safety and their own bottom line.” This includes not doing nearly enough to stop misinformation from spreading on its platform. The linked Washington Post article has a good summary of the takeaways.
I am becoming increasingly convicted (to use a word from my youth) about my Facebook usage. I am a hardcore Facebook and Instagram user, as many of you reading this know. I rely on these platforms for social interaction with my dear ones, especially in these enduring Covid times.
And yet. For all the happiness Facebook brings me personally, I find myself asking At what cost? Facebook is a bad actor, plain and simple.
Do Something About Misinformation: actions we can take now
Take a break from social media
On Thursday, I’m going to take a break from Facebook and Instagram and use the time to try and rethink my relationship with the platforms. Care to join me?
Call
Senators and Congress
Call your US Representative and Senators and tell them to act on what they are learning about Facebook. It might be time to break up the company, and Congress just might be amenable to the idea.
Capitol switchboard: (202) 224-3121
Write
A friend of mine suggested postcards to our legislators, and I think it’s a fabulous idea. If you need a postcard, I made one you can print out.
Office of Senator (Name)
United States Senate
Washington, D.C. 20510
Find your Representative’s address here.
What are your ideas?
If you have some ideas for things we can do to help, I am all ears. Please share in the comments below.
Thank you! If we Do Something, we can make a difference.
