Halifax Considers Exiting Social Media Platform X Due to Concerns Over Toxic Environment and Misalignment with Municipal Values

Halifax Regional Municipality is currently debating whether to discontinue its use of the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, due to concerns that the platform no longer aligns with the city’s values. Councillor Laura White has submitted a motion requesting that city staff assess the feasibility of ending the municipality’s activity on X. The motion highlights the drastic shift in the platform’s environment since Elon Musk’s acquisition in 2022, which has led to increased toxicity and a decline in its usefulness as a medium for civic engagement. Councillor White argues that X has become incompatible with Halifax’s commitment to evidence-based decision-making and principles of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

The Decline of X as a Platform for Civic Engagement

Since Musk took over Twitter and rebranded it as X, the platform has undergone significant changes that have raised red flags for many users and organizations. The motion points out that under Musk’s leadership, X has become less informative and more hostile, making it an unsuitable space for reputable organizations like the Halifax Regional Municipality. The councillor’s concerns are amplified by Musk’s new role as a “special government employee” of the Trump administration, which further underscores the platform’s perceived departure from values that prioritize inclusivity and factual discourse. The motion is set to be debated at an upcoming council meeting, and while Councillor White declined to comment ahead of the discussion, she has pledged to address the issue publicly after the council has reviewed her proposal.

The Rise of Toxicity and Harassment on X

The decline of X as a constructive platform is not just a matter of perception; it has been documented by users and experts alike. Digital anthropologist Giles Crouch notes that the lack of moderation on the platform since Musk’s takeover has created an environment where trolls and malicious actors thrive. This shift has led many reputable users to abandon the platform, as it has become increasingly hostile. Halifax-based advocate Liz LeClair, who focuses on gender-based violence issues, shares a harrowing experience of being repeatedly harassed on X. She recounts how individuals, largely men, would send her vile messages advocating for violence against women, with little to no intervention from the platform. The inability to effectively block or report such accounts forced LeClair to leave X entirely.

Expert Insights on the Potential Implications of Halifax’s Decision

While Councillor White’s motion has garnered support from those who share concerns about X’s direction, there are also voices cautioning against a hasty exit. Giles Crouch, while acknowledging the toxic environment, believes that pulling out of X may be premature, given its continued popularity. He points out that many Halifax residents still use the platform, making it a valuable channel for civic communication. However, Crouch also warns that if X continues on its current trajectory, its usefulness could diminish significantly within the next six months to a year. He suggests that the city should closely monitor the platform’s evolution before making a definitive decision.

Exploring Alternatives to X for Civic Communication

Councillor White’s motion not only calls for an assessment of the feasibility of leaving X but also urges city staff to explore alternative methods of communication with residents. This proactive approach reflects a recognition that effective civic engagement requires adaptability in an ever-evolving digital landscape. While X has been a key platform for the municipality since 2010, its declining reputation and functionality necessitate a backup plan. The motion emphasizes the importance of maintaining open and accessible lines of communication with the public, even as the city evaluates whether to distance itself from a platform that no longer serves its values.

Moving Forward: Balancing Civic Engagement with Platform Integrity

The debate over Halifax’s use of X highlights a broader challenge faced by municipalities and organizations worldwide: how to navigate the complexities of social media while upholding their values. On one hand, platforms like X provide valuable tools for sharing information and engaging with the public. On the other hand, their increasingly toxic environments and problematic governance raise ethical concerns. As Halifax council considers its next steps, the decision will not only impact its communication strategy but also serve as a statement about the importance of aligning digital platforms with civic values. Whether the city chooses to leave X or remain, the conversation underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and adaptability in the digital age.