Irish Quakers Join Global Exodus from X (Formerly Twitter), Citing Misinformation and Incompatibility with Core Values
The Religious Society of Friends in Ireland, more commonly known as Quakers, have announced their departure from Elon Musk’s social media platform X, formerly Twitter. This move aligns with a broader trend among Quaker organizations worldwide, a collective "Twitter eXodus" driven by concerns over the platform’s direction under Musk’s ownership. The Irish Quakers’ decision underscores a growing unease within the community regarding the proliferation of misinformation and harmful content on X, a trend they believe contradicts their fundamental principles of integrity, peace, equality, and simplicity. The departure marks a significant step for the historically pacifist group, highlighting the increasing importance of online spaces reflecting their core values.
Central to the Quakers’ decision is their commitment to "Ubuntu," a Nguni Bantu term emphasizing humanity and interconnectedness. This theme has been a focal point for Quakers globally throughout 2023, marking the 400th anniversary of the birth of George Fox, the founder of Quakerism. The concept of Ubuntu underscores the Quaker belief in the inherent worth of every individual and the importance of treating others with respect and compassion. The Irish Quakers feel that the current environment on X, marred by negativity and often divisive rhetoric, directly contradicts this core principle, making it increasingly difficult to maintain a presence that aligns with their beliefs.
Mary McNeill, the Ireland yearly meeting recording clerk, articulated the growing discomfort within the Quaker community regarding X. She stated that the platform’s increasing levels of misinformation and harmful content, particularly since Musk’s acquisition, had made it challenging to maintain a constructive presence. This sentiment resonated with Quakers in Ireland, Britain, and worldwide, reflecting a shared concern about the platform’s evolving nature. McNeill emphasized that the atmosphere on X "doesn’t fit with the principles that guide us in our everyday lives," a clear indication of the disconnect between the platform’s current state and the Quakers’ core values.
The Irish Quakers’ decision to leave X wasn’t a sudden reaction but rather a culmination of long-standing concerns. McNeill revealed that the platform had been a source of "disquiet for many years" among Quakers. The rise of misinformation and the increasingly polarized nature of online discourse have gradually eroded the platform’s suitability as a space for constructive dialogue and engagement, particularly for a community deeply committed to peace and reconciliation. This growing unease ultimately led to the decision to seek alternative platforms more aligned with their values.
Looking ahead, the Irish Quakers are exploring other social media platforms that offer a more conducive environment for their message. McNeill indicated a preference for platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Bluesky, suggesting that these spaces offer a better balance of community engagement and content moderation. The Quakers’ departure from X is unlikely to significantly impact the platform itself, given their relatively small size. However, their decision carries symbolic weight, representing a conscious choice to prioritize values over visibility in the increasingly complex landscape of social media.
The Irish Quakers, numbering around 1,500 across the island, represent a small but historically significant religious minority. With roots in 17th-century England, their beliefs are grounded in Christianity, emphasizing peace, equality, and social justice. Their commitment to pacifism and their active involvement in humanitarian work are hallmarks of their faith. The first recorded Quaker meeting in Ireland took place in 1654, marking the beginning of a long and influential history on the island. The Quaker community has contributed significantly to Irish society, with prominent families like the Bewleys (tea), Jacobs (biscuits), Lambs (jam), and Malcolmsons (cotton) all having Quaker roots. The legacy of Irish Quakers extends beyond commerce, with figures like Antarctic explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton and even former US president Richard Nixon having ancestral ties to the community. Their decision to leave X reflects a continuing commitment to their core principles, even in the ever-evolving digital age.