By Ann Schockett, NFRW President
You know that internet censorship is a real problem when the President of the United States has his social media account cancelled while a Middle Eastern dictator can post whatever he likes. Or when an emerging social media company is de-platformed by its web hosting service. Or when a Big Tech executive must be hauled before a panel of United States senators and lambasted for not allowing a major publication to post an article on its social media account because it’s critical of a particular presidential candidate.
Countless conservatives have had their social media accounts suspended or canceled by the predominately left-wing employees who make up America’s high tech elite.
How is it that America, where the right to free speech is the first item enshrined in the Bill of Rights, has gotten to the point where internet oligarchs have the power to silence someone for their political beliefs, under the guise of “hate speech?” It seems as though conservatives are facing a David vs. Goliath battle with Big Tech.
Well, NFRWarrior Sisters, we all know who won that battle.
With your voice and your wallet, you can let the titans of Big Tech know that censorship is unacceptable in a free society. We live in a nation that has allowed people such as themselves to become enormously successful, but it should not be at the expense of our rights. We can make a difference. Here’s how.
1. Use Social Media to Call Out Tech Executives When They Censor a Conservative – These companies - and all businesses - monitor their social media accounts regularly for customer feedback and are often quick to respond to complaints.
2. Utilize Alternative Social Media Platforms – Competition is good for business, and Big Tech companies need to know that their customers can go elsewhere if they find their business practices unacceptable.
3. Own Stock in a Big Tech Company? Participate in their Annual Shareholder Meeting – Even just owning one share of company stock grants you a seat at their annual shareholder meetings where investors can submit questions to their executives about their policies and practices.
4. Engage Rather Than Boycott – It’s better to engage the company as a continuing customer. If you’re not a customer, then you’re not on their radar, and the company therefore has no incentive to change their policies.
5. Support Small Businesses and Shop Locally – Big Tech retailers have made record earnings during the COVID-19 pandemic while small businesses are struggling to survive. Please consider that when shopping online.
6. Always Keep Your Comments Polite and to the Point – You’re more likely to get a response if you maintain a calm and professional attitude.
Technology is an important part of all our lives. Like any consumer, we want value for our money. Let’s send a reminder to Big Tech that the right to speak one’s mind is the cornerstone of freedom and as such, we as a free people are willing to take our business elsewhere.