Michael Stipe, the renowned frontman of R.E.M., has called upon his social media followers to participate in a temporary boycott of Meta and its associated platforms. This bold move is aimed at protesting the company?s role in ?helping advance the far right in America.? Stipe?s plea emphasizes the importance of collective action against corporate entities that contribute to the proliferation of harmful ideologies. By rallying support, he seeks to raise awareness about the significant impact that social media companies can have on the political landscape and societal values.

On Sunday, January 19, Stipe shared his boycott intentions through an impactful Instagram post, detailing the ‘Lights Out Meta’ campaign. This initiative is scheduled to run from January 19 to January 26, during which Stipe encourages users to log out of all Meta platforms, which notably include popular apps like Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Messenger, WhatsApp, Giphy, Meta Quest, and Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses. By stepping away from these platforms, users can send a powerful message about their discontent with the role these companies play in fostering divisive and extremist narratives in society.

?I will be logged off for the entire week. I encourage everyone to consider doing the same,? Stipe expressed in his post. ?This action is crucial as it prompts corporations like Meta to recognize that there could be consequences for their part in promoting the far right both in America and globally. The real question is, are we too dependent on these platforms to take a break, even for just one week?? His words resonate with the urgency to reassess our relationship with social media, highlighting the addictive nature of these platforms and the necessity of reflection during this period of protest.

?It?s utterly disheartening,? he elaborated in the caption of his post. ?I find immense relief in stepping away for a week as a form of protest. After this, I will reevaluate my engagement with these platforms and decide on my future interactions.? Stipe’s commitment to taking a stand against Meta underscores his dedication to challenging the status quo and advocating for a more responsible digital environment. His stance encourages others to consider the implications of their online presence and the broader effects of corporate practices on societal values.

Stipe?s decision to join the boycott comes just days after Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced a controversial shift in their policies. Zuckerberg revealed the discontinuation of the company?s fact-checking program on Facebook and Instagram, citing issues of ?excessive mistakes and censorship? and claiming it is ?too politically biased.? This announcement has raised significant concerns regarding the potential for misinformation and bias on these platforms, prompting calls for accountability from users and advocates for responsible digital practices.

In place of the fact-checking initiative, Facebook and Instagram will now adopt a system reminiscent of the ?community notes? model seen on X. This alteration has sparked widespread criticism as commentators worry it may exacerbate the dissemination of misinformation on social media, thereby facilitating the growth of far-right ideologies. The implications of these changes are profound, raising questions about the responsibility of social media giants in curbing the spread of false information and their role in shaping public discourse.

Stipe is not alone in his social media exodus this weekend. The Cure?s Robert Smith also announced his departure from X on the same day, opting instead for alternative platforms like Bluesky, Instagram, or Mastodon?s Universeodon. ?If I don?t find an alternative, I will likely be spending more time outside,? Smith added, indicating a broader trend among artists and public figures reevaluating their engagement with traditional social media. This movement reflects a growing desire for more meaningful online interactions and a pushback against platforms perceived as detrimental to society.