Prince Harry and Meghan Markle release statement after alarming update
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have issued a scathing statement criticizing Meta’s recent policy changes amid the ongoing catastrophe in Southern California. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have been active in wildfire relief efforts near their Montecito home, called out the tech giant for its decision to overhaul its fact-checking program in favor of a “Community Notes” system akin to X (formerly Twitter).
In their strongly worded message, Harry and Meghan warned that Meta’s new approach should “concern us all.” They expressed particular alarm over the company’s apparent abandonment of diversity and equity commitments.
“We are particularly alarmed by plans to abandon commitments to diversity and equity, coupled with internal policy changes that undermine protections for marginalized communities,” their statement read.
The couple highlighted the broader implications of Meta’s decision, especially for vulnerable populations. “These decisions echo what experts, whistleblowers, and families have raised in hearings on online harm, especially regarding children’s safety: platform design, dictated by internal policies, directly determines our online experience.”
Meta’s policy shift, which includes removing its fact-checking program, was sharply criticized by the Sussexes as prioritizing profit over public safety. “As they announce these changes undoubtedly responding to political winds, they once again abandon public safety in favor of profit, chaos, and control,” they stated.
The couple accused Meta of betraying its stated values. “The company’s decision to roll back protections is so far away from its stated values and commitments to its users—including the parents and families calling for change around the globe—that it’s now deeply deceptive,” they said.
In their statement, Harry and Meghan also warned that these changes would enable “more abuse” and normalize hate speech. “Normalising hate speech serves to silence speech and expression, not foster it,” they asserted. Their comments come as Southern California faces devastating wildfires just 90 miles from the Sussexes’ home.
The couple has been actively involved in relief efforts, stepping out on Friday to assist with aid distribution and making a monetary donation to support victims. Harry and Meghan’s critique of Meta underscores their commitment to social justice and their ongoing advocacy against online harm, particularly for vulnerable communities and families.