WASHINGTON, DC — The following is a statement from Madihha Ahussain, Muslim Advocates’ special counsel for anti-Muslim bigotry, regarding Facebook’s new policy banning expressions of white nationalism and white separatism from Facebook and Instagram:

“After an avowed white nationalist used Facebook to broadcast the murder of 51 people at two mosques in New Zealand just over a week ago, today’s announcement that white nationalist and separatist content will be banned from both Facebook and Instagram is a welcome development. Now, the question is: how will Facebook interpret and enforce this new policy to prevent another tragedy like the Christchurch mosque attacks?

We need to know how Facebook will define white nationalist and white separatist content. For example, will it include expressions of anti-Muslim, anti-Black, anti-Jewish, anti-immigrant and anti-LGBTQ sentiment — all underlying foundations of white nationalism? Further, if the policy lacks robust, informed and assertive enforcement, it will continue to leave vulnerable communities at the mercy of hate groups. As the horror in New Zealand has once again shown us, hate has deadly consequences.

For years, Muslim Advocates and other civil rights groups have been advocating for reforms and accountability mechanisms to ensure that Facebook is a safe platform and is used for good, not hate, in the world. We look forward to working with Facebook to ensure that this new policy is fully implemented and enforced to protect all vulnerable communities from hate.”

Muslim Advocates is a national civil rights organization working in the courts, in the halls of power and in communities to halt bigotry in its tracks. We ensure that American Muslims have a seat at the table with expert representation so that all Americans may live free from hate and discrimination.

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