(time to subscribe to more newsletters)
Yesterday, we read about Meta removing dozens of accounts belonging to abortion access providers and queer groups. This unbelievable form of censorship makes us feel sick, but it also underlines another problem:
We have all become far too reliant on Meta as a communication tool.
Especially if you use Meta to reach fans or supporters of your work, your art, or your expertise: if, for whatever bogus reason, Meta decides to remove your account, those contacts are gone, and there’s no other way to reach them.
At first, here at Left of the Dial, we weren’t particularly worried about our account being removed. We thought only really controversial accounts would run that risk. You know, the ones that show graphic violence or spread vicious hatred.
But if they’re shutting down friendly queer groups, pretty much anyone could be next.
Last year, we explained that we’re not spending any money on Meta ads any more, and we still don’t. Now, we wish we could leave Meta altogether, but we’re not brave enough. We’ve still got tickets to sell, and we’re not sure how to reach potential festivalgoers otherwise.
We know lots of other festivals, artists, and music venues struggle with the same thing, so please…
Subscribe to more newsletters.
Actually reading them would be even better, of course, but it’s a really good start just to sign up, so your possible new favourite artist, festival, or venue knows how to reach you in case Meta randomly removes accounts again.
It also means that we, The Senders of Newsletters, need to step up our game and make them more fun, more informative, and just more worth reading in general.
Anyway, that’s what we think.
If you want to check whether our newsletters really are fun and informative, please go to the Left of the Dial website. Somewhere at the bottom of the page you’ll find a button to subscribe. Or just DM us your email address and we’ll do it for you.
And if you already receive our newsletter, please consider signing up for others by artists or organisations you like.
You can always unsubscribe, just don’t let Meta decide for you.
Big love,
The moral mailmen of Left of the Dial
