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Palestinian groups accuse Meta of unfairly moderating speech amid Israel-Hamas conflict on December 1, 2023 at 11:00 am Business News | The Hill

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Several Palestinian advocacy groups are calling on the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp to address longstanding content moderation issues that they allege have unfairly restricted Palestinian speech in the wake of the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war last month.

The “Meta: Let Palestine Speak” petition accuses the tech giant of unfairly removing content and suspending or “shadow banning” accounts from Palestinians, while failing to adequately address “incendiary Hebrew-language content.”

The complaints about Meta’s content moderation policies stretch back several years, said Nadim Nashif, the executive director and co-founder of the Palestinian digital rights group 7amleh-The Arab Center for the Advancement of Social Media. 7amleh is leading the Meta petition alongside the digital rights advocacy group Fight for the Future.

Following an earlier outbreak of violence in May 2021 that prompted similar accusations of unfair treatment of Palestinians on Meta’s platforms, the tech giant commissioned an independent due diligence report.

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The report found that Meta’s actions during the period of unrest “appear to have had an adverse human rights impact on the rights of Palestinian users to freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, political participation, and non-discrimination.”

Meta agreed to implement many of the recommendations from the report, including developing and deploying “classifiers” for Hebrew “hostile speech.” The classifiers, which use machine learning to detect violating content, had previously existed for Arabic but not Hebrew.

However, following the Oct. 7 attack on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas and Israel’s subsequent airstrikes and ground invasion of Gaza, Nashif said Meta’s new Hebrew classifiers appear to have fallen short.

Meta acknowledged the shortcomings of its Hebrew classifiers internally last month, noting that the classifiers were not being used on Instagram comments because the machine learning-based tool did not have enough data to function properly, the Wall Street Journal reported.

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The tech giant also lowered the threshold for an automated system that hides comments that could potentially violate the company’s policies on hostile speech from 80 percent certainty to 25 percent within the Palestinian territories, according to the Journal.

Meta, which lowered the thresholds for several countries throughout the region to lesser extents, reportedly sought to address a surge in hateful content after the Oct. 7 attack.

However, Nashif argued that lowering the threshold produces a “very aggressive content moderation approach,” which results in “lots of false positives” and content “being taken down that should not be taken down.”

Jillian York, the Director for International Freedom of Expression at the Electronic Freedom Foundation (EFF), similarly suggested that the current conflict has resulted in levels of content about Palestine and content removals that are “unprecedented” in scale.

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In the wake of the present backlash, she argued that social media companies need to be “more transparent in everything that they’re doing, every step of the way” when it comes to moderating content.

“Basically, tell us what you’re taking down and tell us why you’re taking it down, who asked you to take it down and why,” York said.

She also emphasized the importance of making content moderation “culturally specific,” noting that Arabic is a complex language with multiple dialects across many different countries.

“Meta has not done its due diligence in ensuring that its moderation is culturally specific,” York said. “So the people who are moderating content for Palestine might be from Morocco, for example. They might not have the same dialect, they might not have the same understanding, they might not have the same words.”

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“And that’s just the human moderators,” she continued. “Then you have the machine learning, automation and so on.”

Several recent problems with how artificial intelligence (AI) powered tools on Meta platforms have represented Palestinians have also highlighted the way in which human biases can affect such technology, Nashif noted.

Meta had to apologize last month after Instagram’s auto-translation inserted the word “terrorist” into the bios of some Palestinian users containing an Arabic phrase, and WhatsApp came under fire earlier this month when an AI-powered tool generated images containing guns in response to phrases like “Palestinian”, “Palestine” or “Muslim boy Palestinian.”

“When people were speaking with the company, they were saying, ‘Oh, this is a technical error’ or ‘this is a glitch’ and were not really tackling the issue,” Nashif said. “Now obviously, this is not a technical error. This is just a reflection of the bias that is there.”

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“At the end of the day, this is a machine learning process,” he added. “There are sets of data that they are feeding the machine with, and clearly if those sets of data are biased, clearly the end result will be biased.”

In response to a request for comment, Meta pointed to an October statement about its ongoing efforts to respond to the Israel-Hamas war.

“Our policies are designed to keep people safe on our apps while giving everyone a voice,” the company said in the statement. “We apply these policies equally around the world and there is no truth to the suggestion that we are deliberately suppressing voice.”

​Technology, Business, News, content moderation, Facebook, Instagram, Israel, Israel-Hamas war, israel-palestine conflict, Meta, palestine, Palestinians, whatsapp Several Palestinian advocacy groups are calling on the parent company of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp to address longstanding content moderation issues that they allege have unfairly restricted Palestinian speech in the wake of the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war last month. The “Meta: Let Palestine Speak” petition accuses the tech giant of unfairly removing content…  

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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown

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In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.

Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.

Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.

Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.

In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.

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Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.

These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.

As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.

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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities

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In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.

The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.

Economic Tremors

Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.

Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.

Community Fabric Under Strain

Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.

Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.

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Cities at a Crossroads

As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.

Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.

Looking Ahead

As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.

What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.

As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election

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Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:

Electoral College Victory

Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.

Battleground State Performance

Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:

  • Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
  • Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
  • Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
  • Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.

While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:

Congressional Control

The election results extend beyond the presidency:

Media Implications

The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:

  1. Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
  2. Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
  3. Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
  4. Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
  5. Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.

It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.

As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.

Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!

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