Lights Out! How to Participate in the Meta Blackout

Taking a Stand Against Dehumanizing Policies

In a world where online platforms shape how we connect, communicate, and share ideas, it's more important than ever to hold companies accountable for the environments they create. That’s why the Meta boycott is making waves.

If you’re ready to take a stand for safer, more inclusive online spaces, here’s everything you need to know to get involved.

Photo by Dima Solomin on Unsplash

What Is The MetaBlackout?

The Meta Blackout is a grassroots, user-initiated initiative created in response to Meta’s recent alignment with the incoming U.S. administration and its own companywide policy changes. Many users feel these changes open the door to more hate speech and dehumanizing language on its platforms, turning spaces meant for connection into arenas of harm and exclusion. These shifts make marginalized communities more vulnerable to online harassment and discrimination.

But this movement isn’t just about reacting—it’s about taking action. If you’ve been wondering what the buzz is about, keep reading.

Why It Matters:

For many, Meta’s recent decisions cross a line. They’ve created policies that some believe legitimize discriminatory language, making online spaces less welcoming and more hostile. Using the tags #MetaBlackout and #BoycottMeta, the campaign aims to pressure Meta to reverse these harmful decisions and to prioritize creating a safer, more respectful digital environment.

How to Join the Movement

Getting involved in the boycott is simple.

1. Log Out or Deactivate: From January 19th to the 25th, log out or deactivate your accounts on all Meta platforms. If you’re feeling particularly committed, consider deleting your account permanently. While some people are opting for a one-day blackout on inauguration day, a longer duration is more likely to have an impact.

   
   

2. Know the Platforms: Meta owns a wide range of platforms, so make sure to log out of all of these:

   • Facebook

   • Instagram

   • Messenger

   • Threads

   • WhatsApp

   • Meta Quest

   • Horizon Worlds

   • Ray-Ban Meta

   • Mapillary

   • Workplace

     
     

3. Spread the Word: Share information about the boycott on other social media platforms to amplify the movement’s impact. Start conversations, engage with content that highlights the importance of safer online spaces, and encourage others to join.

Do Social Media Boycotts Work?

Social media boycotts can work, but their effectiveness depends on several factors, including the level of participation, media coverage, and campaign goals.

Their success is rarely absolute but if a boycott leads to a noticeable reduction in ad revenue or daily active users, it can push companies to address the concerns raised. When a large number of users deactivate accounts or stop engaging with a platform, it can lead to measurable drops in user metrics, which companies and advertisers closely monitor.

Why Your Voice Matters

Joining the boycott is a small but powerful way to advocate for change. When users come together to voice their concerns, they send a clear message to corporations: we demand accountability and inclusivity.

The blackout serves as a reminder that user feedback and engagement are critical in shaping the digital spaces we all inhabit. By participating, you’re not just taking a stand against harmful policies—you’re helping to create a safer, more respectful online world for everyone.

Ready to join the movement? Turn the lights out on Meta.

Update: Interesting...

Lawyer and Stanford professor Mark Lemley said he’s dropping Meta as a client over what he said was the company and CEO Mark Zuckerberg’s “descent into toxic masculinity and Neo-Nazi madness.” Read more