Dean Rieck, Executive Director at Buckeye Firearms Association | LinkedIn
Dean Rieck, Executive Director at Buckeye Firearms Association | LinkedIn
It has been reported that Facebook is facing criticism from the Buckeye Firearms Association (BFA) for removing posts they claim do not violate community standards. Joe D. "Buck" Ruth, a representative of BFA, expressed concerns about Facebook's actions during the election season, stating that their posts are removed without explanation or opportunity for review.
The Buckeye Firearms Association is a grassroots organization advocating for gun rights and public education on firearms. Ruth noted that while in previous years removed posts were often reinstated after review, this practice has changed with the onset of the election period. According to Ruth, requests for reviews are now ignored.
Ruth listed several examples of posts removed by Facebook, including those criticizing political figures and issues related to gun laws and elections. In response to these removals, Ruth questioned Facebook's consistency in applying its community standards globally.
Ruth also highlighted what he perceives as hypocrisy from Facebook. He mentioned receiving notifications encouraging BFA to engage with content from progressive groups like Occupy Democrats and Gayety, despite not following these pages.
The association opposes Ohio's state Issue 1, which they argue would enshrine gerrymandering into the state constitution. They allege that while their anti-Issue 1 content is removed by Facebook, supportive content remains online.
This situation raises questions about whether Facebook acts as a platform or publisher, according to Ruth. The potential implications include increased scrutiny and regulation over free speech and electoral influence.
For further updates and discussions on gun rights advocacy, BFA encourages followers to join them on X (formerly Twitter).
Joe D. "Buck" Ruth manages the website and social media for Buckeye Firearms Association and has extensive experience in journalism and hunting.