We at Lambda Legal have made the decision to close our account on Twitter/X, effective today.
Recent policy changes, like the decision to remove Twitter’s policy against targeted misgendering and/or dead naming of transgender people, have opened our communities to incredibly dangerous, violent, and hate-filled rhetoric.
Administrative and algorithm changes, including the removal of verified checks for nonprofits community organizations have made it incredibly difficult to reach our communities.
And in a year of record-breaking anti-LGBTQ+ bills and rising hate across the U.S, we’ve seen firsthand how the rise of unchecked vitriol and disinformation on the platform has decimated a vital resource for our communities to connect with each other and participate in democratic discourse in real time.
Connection this coming year is ever more pivotal, with state legislative sessions and the election just around the corner. The harm that unchecked disinformation and hatred cause to our communities and to our democracy cannot be overstated.
Our communities deserve safe spaces, free from cyberbullying, harassment and harmful disinformation. We deserve quick access to the news and to converse with each other and our allies about the issues impacting our lives.
But if the platform’s policies remain what they are, it is dangerous for our community to be engaging in such an unmoderated space. Our account will remain live on Twitter/X as an archive but until things change, we cannot in good faith engage in a space that only risks the safety and well-being of our communities.
We are proud to stand with GLSEN and our colleagues to release this letter today:
Dear Twitter/X Leadership and Community,
We write to you today with a deep concern regarding the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth on the Twitter/X platform. Over the years, Twitter has played a role in connecting individuals, amplifying voices, and fostering important conversations around the world.
However, recent developments and policy updates have led us to reevaluate our presence on the platform, including the recent decision to remove the policy against targeted misgendering and/or dead naming of transgender individuals.
We are deeply troubled by the growing concerns surrounding the safety of the LGBTQ+ community.
Despite Twitter’s alleged commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity, we have witnessed discriminatory policies and harmful practices that continue to put LGBTQ+ youth at risk.
Cyberbullying, harassment, and the spread of harmful misinformation targeting LGBTQ+ individuals, especially youth, have escalated. The impact of this online discrimination extends to mental health, self-esteem, and, tragically, to cases of self-harm and suicide.
Our priority will always be the safety and well-being of our LGBTQ+ community. As long as the policies and practices of Twitter remain inadequate to address these concerns, we feel it is our responsibility to take action.
We have made the decision to halt our Twitter presence. This indefinite pause is intended to raise awareness and call attention to the urgent need for more comprehensive policies and practices that prioritize the safety and well-being of all users.
We invite Twitter/X to engage in an open dialogue to address these pressing concerns and to work towards a safer online environment for all users.
Sincerely,
GLSEN
CenterLink
Family Equality
Equality Federation
Lambda Legal
Out & Equal
PFLAG
National Center for Transgender Equality