Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has initiated significant policy changes within the company, sparking debate among employees and external stakeholders. The adjustments include removing tampons and sanitary pads from men’s restrooms in Meta offices across Silicon Valley, Texas, and New York, a provision initially intended to support non-binary and transgender employees, according to a New York Times report.
This move is part of a broader overhaul aimed at aligning Meta’s policies with shifting political landscapes. In a statement earlier this week, Zuckerberg announced an end to the company’s fact-checking practices and eased restrictions on speech across Facebook and Instagram, citing the need to “restore free expression.”
Internal DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs have also been scaled back, and transgender and non-binary themes removed from the Messenger app, prompting concern among employees, particularly in the @Pride group supporting LGBTQ+ issues. The changes have reportedly led to resignations and plans to leave the company.
Alex Schultz, Meta’s Chief Marketing Officer, defended the moves in internal communications, suggesting such issues have become politically charged. However, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups have expressed fears of increased harassment resulting from looser content moderation policies.
While Zuckerberg denied the changes were intended to appease the incoming Trump administration, he acknowledged its influence on Meta’s approach. The reforms have drawn praise from conservatives, criticism from President Joe Biden, and mixed reactions within Meta, highlighting the complexities of fostering open debate while ensuring inclusivity.
