Compton's Table Leaves Meta Platforms Over Safety Concerns

Compton's Table has announced their departure from Meta-owned platforms (Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp). The organization cites growing concerns over safety, algorithmic bias, and the unchecked spread of harmful content targeting the queer and trans community as key reasons for the decision.

For years, Meta has faced criticism for failing to protect queer and transgender users from harassment while simultaneously profiting from their engagement. Reports of queer content being disproportionately flagged, shadow banned, and removed, combined with the rise of misinformation and hate speech, have made unchecked social media a more hostile environment for marginalized communities.

"The safety and well-being of the people we serve must always come first," said Dr. Tyler Titus, Board Chair. "We know that queer visibility is crucial and should be in all spaces, but we also refuse to participate in a system that allows harm to be inflicted on our community while benefiting those responsible. It is time to curate connections that align with our values and prioritize our well-being and safety."

Compton's Table will continue its outreach and advocacy efforts through alternative digital spaces. The organization has established a presence on BlueSky, a decentralized social media platform gaining popularity among queer users seeking safer engagement. Supporters can follow Compton's Table at comptonstable.bsky.social and sign up for the nonprofit's monthly newsletter at ComptonsTable.org to stay updated on programs, events, and initiatives.

While many queer and trans organizations remain on Meta platforms due to the need for visibility, Compton's Table believes that stepping away is a necessary move toward fostering safer, more affirming online communities. The decision reflects a growing concern within queer advocacy spaces about the long-term impact of relying on platforms that fail to prioritize user safety.