The Trevor Project, a prominent national organization dedicated to suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ youth, has announced its departure from social media platform X. This decision is attributed to the increasing level of hate and hostility towards the LGBTQ community on the platform, particularly following billionaire Elon Musk’s acquisition of the company.
Increasing Challenges in Safeguarding LGBTQ Youth Online
In a public statement, The Trevor Project highlighted the growing difficulty in maintaining a safe and welcoming space for LGBTQ youth on X. The organization pointed out the removal of certain moderation functions on the platform, which has compounded the issue, making it increasingly challenging to protect the mental health of the vulnerable LGBTQ youth they serve.
Weighing the Impact and Moving Forward
With nearly 350,000 followers on X, The Trevor Project’s decision to leave was not taken lightly. The organization deliberated extensively, considering various internal and external perspectives. A key concern was whether their departure would allow harmful narratives against the LGBTQ community to go unchallenged. Ultimately, they concluded that exiting the platform was the most responsible action to take.
Continued Support and Alternative Platforms
The Trevor Project reassures LGBTQ youth that they can still find support and community on TrevorSpace.org, their own social networking site. Additionally, the organization remains active on other social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Facebook, to continue its crucial work.
Wider Trend of LGBTQ Organizations Leaving X
This move by The Trevor Project is part of a broader trend among LGBTQ nonprofits distancing themselves from X. Several other organizations, including the San Francisco LGBT Center and U.K.-based Mermaids, have also withdrawn from the platform, citing similar concerns over the increased prevalence of anti-LGBTQ rhetoric and the platform’s evolving policies under Musk’s leadership.